India, currently in its G20 Presidency phase, is hosting the third Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting at the International Labour Organization (ILO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. This significant gathering coincides with the annual International Labour Conference. It features delegates from G20 member countries, guest countries, and prominent international organizations, namely, the ILO, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), International Social Security Association (ISSA), and the World Bank (WB).
Major Highlights of the Meeting
The Indian presidency has honed in on three areas of focus for the EWG meet in 2023.
Addressing Global Skill Gaps
The first major highlight of the meeting is the objective to develop strategies to bridge the skill gaps prevalent in the global workforce. This focus points towards improving overall employability across the globe.
Gig and Platform Economy and Social Protection
The second priority is centered around the gig and platform economy. The agenda here involves ensuring adequate social protection for workers in this sector, keeping in mind the evolving dynamics of work. A modern work system, the gig economy includes individuals performing short-term, freelance jobs typically facilitated by digital platforms or apps.
Sustainable Financing of Social Protection
Finally, the emphasis has been put on sustainable financing models, crucial for underpinning social protection initiatives. These models aim to provide safety nets for workers globally.
Phases of the Employment Working Group Meeting
Organized in four different stages and locations within India, the EWG meeting commenced in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, in February 2023. It then moved to Guwahati, Assam, in April 2023. Currently, the third phase is underway in Geneva, from 31st May to 2nd June 2023. The fourth and final phase will take place in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, in July 2023.
About the Employment Working Group
Established within the G20 framework, the Employment Working Group (EWG) is a forum dedicated to addressing issues related to employment, labor markets, and social policies. It serves as a platform for G20 member countries and relevant international organizations to engage in discussions, share experiences, and develop policy recommendations on employment-related matters.
The primary purpose of the EWG is to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth. This is achieved by encouraging job creation, improving labor market outcomes, and ensuring social protection for workers.
Insight into the International Labour Organization
An eminent international knowledge partner of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the ILO provides technical expertise to the EWG. A United Nations agency, the ILO’s mandate is to advance social justice and economic welfare through the establishment of international labor standards.
The ILO, inaugurated in October 1919 under the League of Nations via the Treaty of Versailles, is the first and oldest specialized agency of the UN. The organization demonstrates a tripartite structure, incorporating representatives of governments, employers, and workers from its 187 member states. India holds the status of a founder member of the International Labour Organization.
International Labour Conference and the ILO’s Achievements
The ILO annually hosts the International Labour Conference in Geneva, setting International labor standards and overarching ILO policies. Dubbed as the International Parliament of Labour, the conference’s primary action means is setting up International Labour Standards in Conventions and Recommendations formats. While Conventions are legally binding international treaties for ratifying countries, Recommendations serve as non-binding guidelines for molding national policies and actions.
The ILO’s notable achievements include receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969 for improving peace among classes, pursuing decent work, justice for workers, and providing technical assistance to developing nations. Its major reports, such as the World Employment and Social Outlook, World Social Protection Report, and Global Wage Report, provide critical insights into global labor trends and standards.