Labour

ILO condemns Hamas attack on Israel, backs UN Sec-General’s call for ceasefire, release of hostages

The International Labour Organisation (ILO), through its Director-General, Gilbert F. Houngbo, has condemned the attacks by Hamas against Israel, which resulted in more than 1,400 deaths and at least 200 abductions of Israeli and international civilians.

He also deplored the deaths of thousands of civilians in Gaza, including United Nations’ staff, as a consequence of Israeli military action in response to these attacks, while extending his condolences to the families of all those affected.

Houngbo also expressed support for the UN Secretary-General’s call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the release of the hostages and urged all parties to ensure the protection of all workers in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory who have been affected by this crisis, including workers from Gaza working in Israel and all health and aid workers who are providing vital assistance on the ground.

According to ILO newsletter, Houngbo said, “The hostilities have resulted in and continue to cause not only tragic loss of human lives, but also an unprecedented loss of livelihoods, jobs, income, businesses and civilian infrastructure, with a devastating impact on labour markets in Gaza, the West Bank and Israel.”

The statement noted that ILO is currently providing emergency assistance to Palestinian workers who are facing dire living conditions because of the crisis and is working to put in place a programme focusing on social protection, skills, jobs and small business recovery.

“Of particular concern is the situation of the estimated 18,000 to 20,000 Gazan daily workers in Israel. The ILO stands ready to continue working with other UN agencies, the international community and our partners to assist and support the impacted communities within the terms of our mandate,” it added.

Also, the ILO has called for heavy investments in the care economy.it said, “Without care workers, there would be few services for pre-school children, older people, or those with disabilities. Without care workers, millions of people could not go to work, which means parents not able to support their families and businesses losing valuable talent.

“This is why, on this first ever International Day of Care and Support, the International Labour Organisation calls for heavy investments in the care economy and policies that guarantee maternity protection, parental leave, early childhood education and care and long-term care services. Such policies will support families, create as many as 300 million jobs and help achieve gender equality.”

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