“This report brings together the voices, experiences and proposals of unions around the world,”said María Helena André, Director of the ILO Bureau of Workers’ Activities.
“Workers have defined shared priorities to promote social justice and shape a more inclusive future of work.”
It noted that while economies and labor markets are changing rapidly, worker protections and governance systems have not kept pace, leading to increased insecurity and deepening inequalities.
Call for a human-centered economy
According to the report, technological change, climate pressures, demographic shifts and weakening social protection are reshaping workplaces faster than policies can respond.
If no action is taken, existing inequalities are likely to worsen, especially for workers in informal, temporary or low-wage jobs.
Among its key messages:
- Decent work and labor rights are non-negotiable.
- Economic governance must put people first.
- Technological and climate transitions must be fair and inclusive.
- Local realities require customized solutions.
- Unions are transforming to remain relevant.
The global debate will begin in Doha
The findings come as more than 8,000 participants – including Heads of State and Government, ministers, employer groups, civil society organizations and youth representatives – prepare to gather in Doha for the Second World Summit for Social Development, opening on Tuesday.
The Summit will review and update commitments first made at the historic Copenhagen Social Summit of 1995, as inequality, insecurity and social fragmentation are increasing once again in many parts of the world.
In a message ahead of the Summit, ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo urged governments to act with ambition and unity:
“Everyone deserves the same opportunities to get quality jobs and shared prosperity. Let us come together again to achieve fair, inclusive and lasting progress for people around the world.“
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