Labour Migration Strategy Workshop in Djibouti

The International Labour Organization supported a series of high-level engagements to advance labour migration governance in Djibouti, bringing together government institutions, social partners, and international stakeholders under the Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) programme funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). These discussions marked a critical step toward developing a coherent and sustainable national framework for labour migration.

The engagements began with a national workshop on 18–19 November focused on relaunching the development of Djibouti’s National Labour Migration Strategy. The workshop provided a platform to assess current migration dynamics, define strategic priorities, and align national efforts with international labour standards. Emphasis was placed on ensuring that the future strategy is rights based, inclusive, and anchored in tripartite dialogue, while also integrating employment, skills development, and social protection considerations.

Building on this momentum, the Fifth Technical Working Group meeting on labour migration convened on 20 November. The meeting reviewed progress achieved under the BRMM programme and reflected on key institutional gains. These include the establishment of a Labour Market Information System, the integration of migration data into national statistical systems, and strengthened national capacities in labour migration governance. The ratification of ILO Convention No. 181 on private employment agencies was also highlighted as a major milestone in advancing fair recruitment practices.

Discussions further focused on identifying remaining gaps and defining priorities for the next phase, particularly as the BRMM programme approaches its conclusion. Participants emphasized the importance of consolidating achievements, strengthening institutional ownership, and ensuring the sustainability of tools and systems developed through the programme.

Across both engagements, a consistent message emerged: effective labour migration governance requires coordinated institutional action, strong data systems, and sustained social dialogue. The ILO reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting Djibouti in finalizing and operationalizing its national strategy, ensuring that labour migration contributes to decent work, social justice, and sustainable development.