By Victor Ahiuma-Young

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has called for coordinated, human-centred, and rights-based policies to address the profound transformations reshaping labour markets globally.

Speaking at the third edition of the Global Labour Market Conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the ILO Director-General, Gilbert Houngbo, highlighted how rapid technological change, demographic shifts, migration, climate shocks, and economic fragmentation and uncertainty are redefining the world of work.

He stressed that these shifts are affecting job creation, job quality, and inequality across regions, and require policy responses grounded in social justice, international labour standards, global cooperation, and evidence-based labour market governance.

Houngbo said technology could be a powerful driver of productivity and growth, but only if accompanied by investment in skills, strong labour institutions, and effective social dialogue to ensure that workers and enterprises alike can adapt to change.

He called for renewed investment in lifelong learning, active labour market policies, and social protection systems, particularly for young people and women, who are often most exposed to labour market disruption. He also urged greater attention to the impact of transitions on migrant and displaced workers.

During a moderated “fireside chat,” Houngbo reiterated the need for investment in skills development, robust labour institutions, and social dialogue as key enablers of successful technological transformation.

He focused on the impact of multiple crises on labour markets and the need to explore strategies for rapid adaptation, including technological adoption, resilient and inclusive workplaces, and strengthened social protection systems to support workers during crises.

Houngbo noted that the platform for labour market dialogue was especially timely amid heightened global uncertainty, adding that collective action and tripartite cooperation remain essential to building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable labour markets.

The conference brought together ministers, social partners, business leaders, and international organisations from across the world.

“The challenge before us is not only how many jobs are created, but what kind of jobs, for whom, and under what conditions,” Houngbo said. “The real test today is how quickly and effectively we translate reform into jobs, opportunities, and dignity for people, and ensure that jobs come faster than disruption.”