Addressing the 35th Session of the Arab Labour Conference in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt, ILO Director-General Juan Somavia underscored the need to ensure that the benefits of economic growth are translated into social justice for the people of the Arab region. Mr. Somavia emphasized that “This current model of globalization is not delivering for ordinary people. We are seeing disparities growing, discontent rising, and enemies of human security in every society fanning the flames of discord.”
The Conference, attended by more than 500 participants, brought together high-level government, employer and worker representatives from the ALO’s 22 member States. In launching a two-year plan of action with the Arab Labour Organization (ALO), Mr. Somavia highlighted the revitalized leadership of ALO Director-General Ahmed Luqman. The joint plan targets critical regional challenges including generating jobs especially for youth, expanding social protection and social dialogue, and promoting rights at work. The creation of decent work for all is an urgent question in a region faced with the need to create around 100 million jobs over the next 20 years.
For more information, please contact the ILO Regional Office for the Arab States in Beirut, at phone: +9611/752-400, fax: +9611/752-405 or e-mail: beirut@ilo.org