Barbados validates its Decent Work Country Programme Diagnostic

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS (ILO News) - The Government, employers and trade unions of Barbados have achieved a major milestone in social dialogue by agreeing on the labour market issues to be addressed in their next Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP).

The consensus was reached during a two-day validation of the Decent Work Country Diagnostic (DWCD), held on 15 and 16 January and facilitated by the ILO Caribbean team in collaboration with consultants from Ergon Associates.

Representatives from the Government of Barbados, the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) and Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) actively participated in the consultation.

The DWCD process is a key component of DWCP development as it provides a well-informed and comprehensive but short diagnostic narrative of the growth, productive employment and decent work situation and trends.

Following extensive discussions, the constituents assessed the findings to determine priority areas for the forthcoming DWCP. The framework is also being designed in alignment with Barbados' national development agenda, international labour standards and the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda to take a comprehensive approach to promoting decent work.

“Barbados’ tripartite constituents have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to shaping the direction of their second DWCP. The DWCD is a critical tool for driving solutions that promote economic growth, productive employment, and decent work for all,” explained Dr Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean.

With the priority areas now identified, the drafting of the Decent Work Country Programme can begin. Further stakeholder consultations will refine and enhance the DWCP as a strategic roadmap for achieving a more equitable and sustainable labour market in Barbados.