Advancing decent work in Dominica through social dialogue and collaboration

In a mission aimed at fostering collaboration and promoting decent work, the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean visited Dominica from March 12–15, 2025. This visit underscored the critical role of social dialogue in advancing sustainable development and strengthening partnerships across the nation. Led by Director Dr. Joni Musabayana, alongside Ms. Vera Guseva, Specialist in Workers' Activities, and Ms. Ingerlyn Caines-Francis, Senior Programme Officer, the team engaged with key stakeholders to address labour market challenges and explore opportunities for progress.

Discussions with Ms. Gloria Joseph, Permanent Secretary, and Mr. Kevin Pacquette, Acting Labour Commissioner, focused on enhancing labour market systems, modernizing legislation, bolstering social protection frameworks, improving labour market data collection, and safeguarding workers’ rights.

The ILO took the opportunity to outline its approach to supporting regional cooperation through harmonized support to country groups. Regional cooperation was also a key discussion point during the meeting with Dr. Gerard Jean-Jacques, Ambassador-Designate to CARICOM and OECS Commissioner. The team emphasized the importance of harmonized labour mobility policies within CARICOM to create opportunities while protecting workers’ rights. With Dominica leading CARICOM’s Quasi-Cabinet for Movement of Labour, stronger regional integration promises enhanced prospects for both workers and businesses.

The team also met with Dominica's Central Statistics Office to discuss improving labour market data systems. Chief Statistician (Ag.), Lorna Prevost-Stevens, conferred with the ILO team on plans for a Labour Force Survey that would empower policymakers to address skills gaps, monitor employment trends, and craft targeted workforce solutions.

Engagements with the Dominica Employers' Federation provided insights into legislative reforms aimed at boosting business growth and profitability. Meanwhile, discussions with trade unions highlighted the importance of unified positions to defend workers’ rights in alignment with International Labour Standards.

The ILO reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with Dominica Social Security during discussions that emphasized continued technical support. Additionally, the team’s interactions with Dominica's Cooperative Division showcased the profound social, economic, and cultural impact of cooperatives in the country. Aligning with plans to celebrate 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives, the ILO pledged its support for this transformative initiative.

The ILO remains committed to walking this path with our Dominican partners every step of the way.