Marshall Islands moves to finalize first-ever employment policy

© International Labour Organization

© International Labour Organization

Majuro, Marshall Islands (ILO NEWS) - The Republic of the Marshall Islands has taken a major step toward adopting its first-ever National Employment Policy (NEP), a landmark initiative aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth and generating sustainable employment opportunities across the country.

At a validation workshop held in Majuro on 13-14 March 2025, organized in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), stakeholders reviewed the final draft of the NEP and expressed broad support for the proposed policy. The event drew participation from government ministries and agencies, employers’ and workers’ organizations, as well as civil society representatives.

The NEP aims to address key challenges facing the Marshall Islands, including youth unemployment, skills development, and the promotion of decent work for all. The policy will be accompanied by a concrete action plan to guide its effective implementation.

Attorney General Bernard Adiniwin, speaking at the workshop, emphasized the urgency of job creation: “We need to create jobs for the Marshallese people and this NEP is an important part of that. We need to address the skills needs for our youth and persons with disabilities. These are key areas. Our work on labour laws is also important to ensure everyone is treated equally.”

Christian Viegelahn, ILO Employment Specialist, highlighted the policy’s potential impact: “This NEP brings all stakeholders together in pursuit of decent employment opportunities for all, in line with the country’s development goals. It also addresses critical skills needs and promotes entrepreneurship to stimulate economic opportunities. The success of this policy will depend on effective implementation, and the ILO stands ready to continue supporting this effort.”

The National Employment Policy is expected to be officially adopted later this year, marking a significant milestone in the country’s employment and development agenda.

The initiative is supported by the ILO and funded by the Joint SDG Fund through the Joint Programme on Accelerating SDG achievement through digital transformation to strengthen community resilience in Micronesia.