Brazil hands over the G20 Employment Working Group to South Africa during ILO-hosted event

GENEVA (ILO News) - The Group of Twenty (G20) Employment Working Group chairpersonship passed from Brazil to South Africa at a meeting during the 352nd sitting of the Governing Body. The G20 EWG also set its priorities for 2025 and reflected on its achievements this year during the meeting, which brought together representatives from Labour Ministries, international organizations, and social partners.

Under Brazil’s leadership, significant milestones were achieved, including the adoption of a Labour and Employment Ministerial Declaration which emphasizes decent work, equitable growth, and just transitions across G20 economies. The Declaration also strengthened partnerships, such as the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC) and the introduction of the G20 Social Policy Portal.

As the incoming chair, South Africa shared its vision for 2025, prioritizing inclusive growth and youth employment, gender equality in the workforce, addressing inequality and a declining labour income share and implications for living standards and digitalization and an inclusive future of work.

“The commitment to creating formal jobs and promoting decent work stands as the most effective tool for achieving more equitable income distribution. We remain committed to supporting the Employment Working Group’s crucial mission to shape a fairer, more inclusive future for all workers.” ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo explained.

South Africa’s vision and plans, coupled with the U.S. joining the Troika, will support deeper collaboration within the G20 on employment and addressing inequality.

The ILO also reaffirmed its support for the G20 initiatives, as well as its commitment and dedication to social justice.