Promoting fundamental principles and rights at work in Jordan

This project focuses on strengthening labour relations, within the triparitie framework, with a view to promoting economic and social development.

Background

Jordan has continued to pursue substantial market-based economic reforms. These reforms have attracted large amounts of foreign investment and have enhanced its trade potential. Jordan acceded to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2000 and entered into the Free Trade Agreement with the United States (2001) and the European Union (2002). The main aim of the EU Association Agreement is to create a free trade area between the EU and Jordan over a period of 12 years, and help increase economic growth for the business community. Liberalizing the trade regime and implementing IMF-supported policies aimed at privatization and careful monetary management, have also contributed to increased productivity and growth of the economy. Despite the economic progress many challenges remain. Unemployment remains high as the labour market is unable to absorb new entrants, particularly the educated youth, due to the mismatch between labour supply and demands. Jordan’s development strategy still lacks effective good governance for the labour market. Existing labour market policies and enforcement mechanisms are also in need of review.
 

Objectives

This project focuses on strengthening labour relations, within the triparitie framework, with a view to promoting economic and social development. This will be achieved through:
  • Putting in place an effective labour administration enforcement mechanism;
  • Establishing an effective social dialogue and dispute settlement mechanism;
  • Strengthening employers’ and workers’ organizations enabling them to strengthen their ability to represent the interests of their constituency.

Expected results

Upon completion of the project, the following results are expected:
  • Awareness raising and media campaigns will have been developed validated by social partners and implemented.
  • A large number of employers and workers in different regions will have been trained on national legislation, international labour standards, and fundamental principles and rights at work.
  • Integrated annual and medium-term labour administration policies will have been put in place.
  • An integrated and efficient labour inspection organization and structure will have been established.
  • The capacity of labour inspectors to conduct efficient inspections will have been strengthened.
  • The Economic and Social Council will have been put in place and will be operating effectively.
  • The National Tripartite Committee for Labour Affairs will be functioning effectively.
  • Labour management relations in targeted enterprises will have been improved.
  • Employers’ organizations will have been strengthened.
  • The capacity of the employers and their representatives to implement the provision of the legislation, and represent their members in social dialogue and collective bargaining will have been strengthened.
  • Workers’ organizations will have been strengthened.