Stop treating labour like a commodity: ILO Chief
dubai — The chief of the United Nation’s International Labour Organisation (ILO) has called for balanced gender representation in all workplaces, which in turn will lead to productive and successful spaces in the future, both in terms of salaries and opportunities.
Furthermore, multi-stakeholder involvement is mandatory in all areas of policy development.
“Governments must interact with employers and working people to find balanced solutions for labour problems,” said Guy Ryder, Director-General of the ILO, during the second day of the World Government Summit on Monday. Uncertainty, widespread disillusionment and exclusion of minorities are three challenges which lie at the centre of inequality in the workforce, he added.
He stated that the nature of labour has transformed and governments and private organisations must stop treating labour as a commodity. Ryder warned that humans must stay in control of technology, not the other way around.
He stated: “Work is not just a commodity to be traded, so we have to create new institutions that are responsible for keeping up with our changing world.” Multi-stakeholders must focus on productive sectors that promise future jobs. “We need to invest in the social protection system to promote the work of societies because it is a fundamental change element,” added Ryder.
He said the UAE has set a shining example by setting a course and vision for the future. “We can draw from that example and we hope in return that the international community and the ILO can offer ideas and perspectives for the future as well.”
He called for an urgent change in direction, and stated that humanity collectively should no longer tolerate inequality in labour and pay.
“We live in a time where chronic job security is very much present in our society… Every year, 2.7 million people lose lives because of the work they do. We need to bring in a balance of professional and personal life. Special attention needs to be given to the emerging platform and the gig economy,” said Ryder.
He added that in the future, upskilling and re-skilling will be a consistent part of every person’s working life. Ryder stated: “We need to strengthen communication and establish a common system of action between the public and private sectors and institutions for the future of human beings.”