ILO Conference sets agenda for inclusive growth through decent work and social dialogue in Indonesia

OREANDA-NEWS. A two day Conference on Inclusive Growth through Decent Work and Social Dialogue in Indonesia concluded on 18 February with agreement on a series of technical meetings to develop an Indonesian Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) toward Decent Work for All.

The Conference was jointly organized by the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower and the ILO. Attended by high level representatives of Indonesia’s employers’ organization and trade unions, the event was opened by the Manpower Minister Muhamad Hanif Dhakiri, Douglas Broderick, UN Resident Coordinator and ILO Deputy Director-General Gilbert Houngbo.

The Conference discussed employment creation (especially youth), increasing productivity, vocational education and training, enhancing labour rights (based on the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work) and promoting safe and secure working environment, sustainable wages policy and sound industrial relations practices through social dialogue, employment security and social protection. A recurring theme during the Conference sessions was concern about rising inequality.

The discussion revealed many areas of convergence and it was agreed to develop these further with the support of the ILO over the coming months with a view to preparing an agenda for Indonesia’s promotion of decent work as a key driver of sustainable development – economic, social and environmental.

“The commitment of Indonesia’s social partners to develop an important plank of the national strategy for sustainable development is very encouraging”, said Mr Houngbo. “The ILO is pleased to offer our support to a process of social dialogue on key elements of decent work reflected in the 2030 Agenda. We will also continue to work closely with our UN partners in supporting the integrated approach to implementation of the 2030 Agenda that Indonesia is constructing.”