The 3rd Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting, held under the G20 Indian Presidency, concluded successfully in Geneva. Taking place from June 31st to June 2nd, 2023, at the International Labour Organization (ILO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, the three-day meeting saw active participation from delegates representing 78 G20 Members, Invitee Countries, Guest Countries, and International Organizations.
During the meeting, there was a consensus among all members on the draft Ministerial Communique and Outcome documents, which focused on the priority areas of the G20 EWG 2023.
The discussions began with an update on the progress of the Antalya and Brisbane Targets by the ILO and OECD. It was highlighted that significant progress has been made towards achieving the goals, but countries need to accelerate their efforts. Following the updates, extensive discussions and negotiations took place over the course of three days, with Chair Ms. Arti Ahuja ensuring consensus on all substantive issues.
The proposed outcomes of the key priority areas under the Indian Presidency include the development of an international reference classification of occupations based on skill and qualification requirements to facilitate cross-country comparability and recognition, as well as the extension of the ILO and OECD’s Skills for Jobs Database to G20 countries with comparable indicators to map global skill gaps. Additionally, commitments were made by G20 countries to provide adequate social protection for all, including gig and platform workers, and ensure sustainable financing of social protection.
The 3rd meeting of the G20 EWG marked a significant milestone in building consensus on the outcomes of the key priority areas under the Indian Presidency. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from the Chair, acknowledging the contributions of all stakeholders involved in organizing the meeting, particularly the ILO and the Permanent Mission of India to the UN in Geneva. The fourth and final meeting of the Employment Working Group, along with the Labour and Employment Ministers Meeting, is scheduled for July 19th-21st, 2023, in Indore, India.
