Geneva: The General Federation of Jordanian Trade Unions (GFJTU) and the International Labour Organization's (ILO) Bureau for Workers' Activities (ACTRAV) discussed ways to strengthen cooperation on priority labour issues to support workers' rights and promote the principles of decent work.
According to Jordan News Agency, the discussions took place during a meeting held on the sidelines of the 114th session of the International Labour Conference, currently underway in Geneva. The meeting brought together Federation President Khaled Al-Fanatseh and Bureau Director Oliver R¶pke, in the presence of Deputy Director Clair Ruppert, Desk Officer for Arab States Mustafa Saeed, and Head of Communications and Publications Mamadou Souar©. Representing the federation were executive office members Mahmoud Edbeis, Khaled Al-Zyoud, Bushra Al-Salman, and Fakhri Al-Ajarmeh, as well as federation adviser Nizam Qahoush.
Both sides stressed the importance of strengthening the partnership between Jordan's trade union movement and the International Labour Organization and intensifying joint efforts to address challenges facing labor markets in a manner that ensures a fair and sustainable working environment that protects workers' rights and supports economic and social development.
The meeting addressed the issue of decent work in the digital platform economy and examined mechanisms to support national efforts to regulate work conducted through digital platforms in line with modern international standards while providing the necessary protections for workers in this growing sector. Participants emphasized the importance of institutionalized tripartite social dialogue among governments, employers, and workers as a key mechanism for addressing labor issues and maintaining balance among stakeholders.
Regarding the informal economy, the meeting underscored the need to expand social protection coverage to include workers in the sector and facilitate their transition into the formal economy, ensuring access to labor rights and social benefits. The participants also reviewed efforts to promote gender equality in the labor market, with a focus on supporting women's participation and leadership within trade unions. Discussions further addressed the ILO's vision for social justice and the Global Coalition for Social Justice.
The meeting also examined current regional developments and the impact of conflicts and crises on labor markets and social stability. Participants highlighted the important role played by the International Labour Organization in protecting workers during periods of crisis and emergency and in supporting countries and communities affected by economic and social challenges.