ILO urges G20 to address inequality, gender disparities, diversity in workplaces

DIRECTOR-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, has called on G20 Labour and Employment Ministers to act decisively in reducing inequalities, advancing gender equality and fostering workplace diversity.

During a high-level meeting in Fortaleza, Brazil on July 25-26, the ministers agreed on a comprehensive set of strategies to tackle global labor market issues, ensure equitable transitions and promote decent work.

They pledged to create quality jobs, support social inclusion and combat hunger and poverty through coordinated social, economic and environmental policies.

Houngbo stated: “In a world facing persistent challenges, it is increasingly clear that we must intensify our efforts to make social justice a reality for everyone. This demands well-coordinated social policies, including social protection and other measures to ensure social inclusion.”

The Director-General also introduced the G20 Social Policy Portal, developed with the International Social Security Association (ISSA). The portal emphasises the need for universal social protection systems and robust labour market institutions to address inequalities and foster sustainable development.

Houngbo commended Brazil’s initiative in launching the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, noting: “Joining this alliance is not only a moral imperative but a vital step towards creating a more equitable and sustainable world of work.”

Celeste Drake, ILO Deputy Director-General, discussed the role of technology in enhancing quality of life at work while respecting fundamental rights and encouraging social dialogue.

She announced the upcoming launch of the ILO Observatory on AI and Work in the Digital Economy in September and a standard-setting discussion on decent work in the platform economy scheduled for 2025.

Houngbo also participated in the Just Transition Leadership Forum, stressing the importance of developing fair transition strategies to achieve decent work and social justice. The forum underscored the need for coordinated action by G20 leaders, governments, employers and workers to address the social impacts of climate change on labour markets.

Gender equality was another key topic. Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to closing the gender gap in labour market participation, aligned with the Brisbane Target, which aims to reduce the gap by 25 percent by 2025 and accelerate gender equality progress.

“Looking ahead to the Brisbane Goal for 2025, countries must continue to advance gender equality and build more inclusive and equitable societies,” said Celeste Drake at the EPIC (Equal Pay International Coalition) side event.

Drake also highlighted the need for improved women’s income security, closing gender pay gaps and enhancing conditions for paid care work.

In their closing declaration, the ministers acknowledged the crucial role of fair wage policies and strong labour market institutions in addressing global employment challenges. They reaffirmed their commitment to the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda, which includes job creation, fair wages, labour rights and social protection.

The declaration also noted the potential of the ILO’s Global Coalition for Social Justice to accelerate global efforts to reduce inequalities.

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