Maria Lindvall (left), 35, environment project leader at the Boliden Garpenberg underground mine (Sweden). Located 200 km northwest of Stockholm, Garpenberg is one of the world's most modern mines. It is also Swedens oldest mining area still in operatio

Achieving decent work and economic growth

Tracking progress towards SDG 8 in Europe and Central Asia

This regional brief presents an overview of progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) in Europe and Central Asia, drawing on the latest available data to assess key trends, disparities, and persistent challenges.

© Marcel Crozet / ILO

It highlights labour market inequalities—particularly affecting youth and vulnerable groups—and examines developments in GDP per capita and output per worker (targets 8.1.1 and 8.2.1), moving beyond growth metrics to reflect broader dimensions of decent work.

The analysis reviews core SDG 8 indicators, including informal employment (8.3.1), average hourly wages and unemployment rates (8.5.1 and 8.5.2), the NEET rate among youth (8.6.1), child labour (8.7.1), and occupational safety and rights at work (8.8.1 and 8.8.2). The findings show mixed progress across subregions, underscoring the need to advance labour rights, promote inclusive employment, and reduce structural inequalities.

Anchored in the ILO’s mandate to promote social justice, this update provides evidence-based insights to support policy action towards achieving full and productive employment and decent work for all.