Global employment trends:The World Employment Outlook report projects a 1% increase in global employment for the current year. However, this growth is accompanied by growing social and economic inequalities.
Impact of crises: Interconnected crises have led to a simultaneous rise in extreme poverty and extreme wealth for the first time in 25 years.
Addressing global inequality: A revitalized multilateral approach and policies that support a future of work centered on greater equality and social justice are needed.
This includes supporting ongoing transitions in demographics, technology, and the environment through education, skills training, social protection, and technology applications.
Role of generative AI and digital technologies: The impact of these technologies on job markets depends on choices made. While they have the potential to improve work conditions, it's essential to ensure they support workers, promote decent work, and do not exacerbate inequality.
Gig and platform work: These can create employment opportunities but can also lead to exploitation and poor working conditions. An international labor standard is being negotiated to promote decent work in this sector.
21st International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS): The conference in Geneva is expected to adopt new standards on informality and determine future priority areas of work.
Affordable social security: Achieving affordable social security for all workers requires promoting formalization and finding fiscal space to expand coverage.
Trade union independence: Trade union independence is emphasized as a core principle, and the importance of consistent and effective social dialogue and consultations among constituents for achieving social justice is highlighted.
This summary covers global employment trends, the impact of crises, the role of technology, gig work, social security, and trade union concerns.