Barbados sets course for decent work – A collaborative vision

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (ILO News) - Barbados has taken a decisive step toward building a more inclusive and equitable labour market with the successful validation of its Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP). Held from 15–17 April 2025, the three-day workshop brought together a wide range of stakeholders —including Government officials, employers’ and workers’ representatives — to finalize the strategic framework that will guide national efforts to promote decent work in the coming years.

Hosted by the Ministry of Labour in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the workshop was facilitated by the ILO Caribbean Office and the Expert Consultancy company, Ergon Associates. The event was marked by dynamic dialogue, collaborative group work, and expert guidance, and underscored a shared commitment to advance decent work for all Barbadians.

“This Decent Work Country Programme represents more than a plan - it is a shared vision for a future where every Barbadian has access to safe and fulfilling employment,” said Hon. Colin E. Jordan, Minister of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector. “The workshop has demonstrated our collective resolve to shape policies and programmes that reflect our realities, address our challenges, and uplift our people.”

Participants engaged in a comprehensive review of the DWCP’s structure, which is based on the Results-Based Management framework and anchored by a robust Theory of Change. Through focused discussions and interactive working groups, stakeholders critically examined the programme’s priorities, refined its outcomes and outputs, and linked these to the country’s most pressing labour market challenges.

The workshop also provided a platform to reflect on and assess the relevance and feasibility of proposed results, ensuring that the design is tailored to Barbados’ unique socio-economic context.

“The validation of Barbados’ DWCP is a significant step toward achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development through decent work,” said Dr. Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO Caribbean Office. “This process has shown the power of collaboration and local ownership, and the ILO remains committed to supporting Barbados as it turns this vision into concrete action.”

The final day featured a townhall style session where each of three priority groups presented their revised Theories of Change, followed by plenary discussions and finally, validation.

This validation workshop marks a critical milestone in Barbados’ journey toward decent work for all. The DWCP for Barbados is carded to be formally launched later this year.