Labour Minister Heads Liberia’s Tripartite Delegation to ILO Conference
Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr. leads a distinguished Liberian delegation to Geneva, Switzerland for the 112th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC).
The conference, organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO), runs from June 3 to June 14, 2024, and will see the participation of delegates from 187 member states.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Labour, the Liberian delegation includes notable officials such as Deputy Labour Minister for Manpower Planning, Hon. Steven S. Kolubah, Assistant Minister for Labour Standards, Hon. Emmanuel Zorh, Jr., and Assistant Minister for Trade Union Affairs and Social Dialogue, Hon. Rufus T. Saylee.
Additionally, the delegation features representatives from the Liberia Chamber of Commerce (LCC) and the Liberia Labour Congress. Mr. T. Nelson Williams represents the employers, while Mr. Marcus M. Blama, Secretary General of the Liberia Labour Congress, represents workers and trade unions.
Minister Kruah is scheduled to deliver a significant statement addressing the current status of Liberia’s labour sector. His speech will focus on the protection of workers, promotion of decent work with gender balance, and the creation of a conducive labour environment under President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s “ARREST AGENDA.”
The ILO conference will tackle various critical issues, including the protection of workers against climate change and biological hazards, the care economy, and fundamental principles and rights at work. One of the key outcomes of the conference will be the election of members to the ILO Governing Body for the 2024-27 term.
The ILO, the only tripartite U.N. agency since its inception in 1919, unites governments, employers, and workers from its member states to set labour standards, develop policies, and create programs aimed at promoting decent work for all.
The organization is committed to social justice and internationally recognized human and labour rights, believing that social justice is essential for universal and lasting peace.
In his absence, Deputy Labour Minister for Administration, Hon. Othello P. Mansuo, will manage the affairs of the Ministry of Labour. This ensures the continuity of the ministry’s operations while the delegation engages in crucial discussions in Geneva.
The International Labour Conference is an annual event that serves as a platform for member states to discuss and adopt resolutions on labour issues. The 112th session promises to address a wide array of topics, reflecting the evolving challenges and opportunities in the global labour landscape.
Minister Kruah’s participation underscores Liberia’s commitment to engaging with the international community on labour issues. It also highlights the country’s efforts to align its labour policies with international standards, particularly in the areas of worker protection and gender equality.
The Liberian delegation’s presence at the ILC is a testament to the country’s proactive stance on labour matters and its dedication to improving the working conditions for all Liberians. The insights gained from this conference are expected to inform and enhance Liberia’s labour policies and practices.
As the conference progresses, the Liberian delegation will engage with counterparts from other nations, sharing experiences and best practices that could be beneficial in addressing local labour challenges. These interactions are crucial for fostering international cooperation and learning.
The outcomes of the ILC, including the adopted resolutions and elected governing body members, will have significant implications for global labour standards and practices. Liberia’s active participation ensures that its perspectives and interests are considered in these important discussions.
The Ministry of Labour’s press release emphasized the strategic importance of Liberia’s involvement in the ILC, particularly at a time when labour issues are increasingly interconnected with global economic and social trends. This participation not only enhances Liberia’s visibility on the international stage but also reinforces its commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of its workforce.
Minister Kruah’s leadership of the Liberian delegation at the 112th Session of the International Labour Conference marks a significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to improve its labour sector. The conference provides an invaluable opportunity for Liberia to contribute to and benefit from the collective efforts of the international labour community
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