Strengthened coordination for improved labour migration governance in South Sudan

© ILO

© ILO

Juba, South Sudan (ILO News) - The ILO Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) Programme in partnership with the Ministry of Labour of South Sudan held the third Technical Working Group (TWG) on Labour Migration, on August 22, 2024, in Juba, South Sudan. The TWG brought together key stakeholders to assess the progress of the Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) Programme, review other ongoing initiatives on LM, address challenges, and devise way forward on labour migration governance. The TWG noted South Sudan’s commitment to improving labour migration policies and practices through coordinated efforts among government agencies, social partners, and private recruitment agencies.

The workshop, was attended by 22 participants, including representatives from various ministries, the South Sudan Workers Trade Union Federation (SSWTUF), the Employers Association of South Sudan, and private recruitment agencies. Discussions focused on the BRMM project’s achievements, challenges, and planned interventions. The Ministry of Labour highlighted progress on non-ILO labour migration projects, showcasing efforts to harmonise migration management and promote the protection of migrant workers. The meeting built on the outcomes of the previous TWG and the 2nd Labour migration advisory group meeting held from 6-7 March 2024 in Uganda, focusing on the commitments made by the Government of South Sudan and its social partners.

Key issues addressed included the need for improved coordination among stakeholders, data management, and the enhancement of social protection measures for migrant workers. The meeting underscored the importance of strengthening labour migration governance through policy development, skills recognition, and promoting regular pathways. Participants were encouraged to enhance their engagement with migrant workers, facilitate their reintegration, and advocate for the ratification of relevant ILO conventions.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on continuing the implementation of priority interventions identified during previous engagements, including the development of a national labour migration policy and the ratification of key international conventions. The TWG highlighted the critical role of collaborative efforts in advancing labour migration governance, ensuring that South Sudan continues to protect and promote the rights of migrant workers while fostering socio-economic development. The BRMM project’s support remains vital in driving these efforts, providing a framework for sustainable and inclusive migration management in the region.