ILO support to Ukraine – Prevention of labour exploitation and human trafficking, support to entrepreneurship development and social partners

The project addresses critical challenges in Ukraine, focusing on the alarming issues of labour exploitation and human trafficking among IDPs and refugees; entrepreneurship development as response to businesses shut down and relocation; and the insufficient capacity of social partners. These problems have been significantly exacerbated by the ongoing Russian military aggression, resulting in over 5 million IDPs and over 8 million Ukrainian refugees in Europe, a situation that demands urgent and comprehensive action to protect vulnerable populations, foster economic recovery, and ensure social stability. The project's strategy involves a coordinated approach, working in partnership with the Ukrainian government, NGOs, and international partners. This collaborative effort aims to achieve sustainable improvements in the lives of Ukrainians, creating a safer, more equitable, and economically prosperous environment for all.

Key Initiatives Include:

1. Prevention of Labour Exploitation/Human Trafficking: In partnership with the State Labour Service of Ukraine and NGOs specialised in antitrafficking actions, the project undertakes robust measures to combat labour exploitation and human trafficking. Initiatives include improved data collection, launching widespread awareness campaigns to educate the public and at-risk groups, enhancing the regulatory frameworks governing private employment agencies to ensure ethical recruitment practices, and update and promote the "Ukraine Works" campaign.

2. Enterprise Development: Recognizing the vital role of entrepreneurship in economic resilience, the project expands the ILO flagship "Start and Improve Your Business" (SIYB) training programme. This includes offering comprehensive training and financial support to aspiring and existing entrepreneurs, with a particular focus on those affected by the conflict. The aim is to stimulate economic recovery and job creation through entrepreneurship.

3. Support to Social Partners: To ensure a sustainable recovery, the project also focuses on enhancing the capacity of employers' organizations and workers' organizations. This involves improving their financial viability, developing new services to meet the evolving needs of their members, and enhancing social dialogue at various levels. New services for employers' organizations will empower businesses to contribute significantly to the country's reconstruction efforts. These services will facilitate the transition towards a greener economy and enhance the employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Trade unions will improve their legal services esp. for war veterans and injured workers and establish protection mechanisms for workers.