The Director-General of the International Labor Organization (ILO), Gilbert Houngbo, praised Saudi Arabia’s leading role in driving the future of the global labor market, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Moreover, Houngbo highlighted the reforms undertaken by Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030 to enhance the work environment, raise market competitiveness and achieve sustainable economic development.
Key Reforms
In his remarks to SPA, during his participation in the Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) in Riyadh, the ILO Director-General noted that the Kingdom has succeeded in developing the labor market through a series of substantial reforms.
These include improving labor laws, enhancing workplace safety and health standards, and promoting youth and women’s employment. He added that these reforms have made Saudi Arabia a global model for creating modern and advanced workplaces.
Enhancing Labor Market
Furthermore, Houngbo said that the Kingdom’s efforts “underscore a firm commitment to creating a more flexible and fair labor market, in line with the international standards we all seek to achieve.”
The ILO Director-General also pointed to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to localizing jobs, empowering women, and investing in skills’ development. This, in turn, reflects positively on providing sustainable job opportunities and boosting economic growth.
He also noted that the Kingdom’s adoption of national policies to combat forced labor emphasizes its commitment to international labor standards and places it among the world’s leading countries in promoting just and equitable working conditions.
Digital Transformation
Moreover, Houngbo highlighted Saudi Arabia’s leadership in digital transformation and its efforts in addressing the challenges of climate change.
Pleased to join the Ministerial Roundtable at #GLMC2025 in Riyadh with 40 labour ministers.
Investing in #YouthEmployment means:
✅ Skills aligned with market needs
✅ Proactive job policies
✅ Youth at the decision-making tableLet’s work together for #DecentWork for all! pic.twitter.com/UBOuMrVQsC
— Gilbert F. Houngbo (@GilbertFHoungbo) January 29, 2025
The ILO Director-General said that the Kingdom’s investments in advanced technologies and sustainability enhancement give it the opportunity to lead global efforts in achieving a “just transition” to a sustainable economy that balances growth and social justice.
A Model to Follow
Additionally, Houngbo noted that Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner in international efforts to promote social justice and inclusive growth. He also highlighted the collaboration between the ILO and the Kingdom across various fields, including occupational safety, skills alignment, and social protection.
He stressed that Saudi Arabia’s experience can serve as a model for other countries to modernize their labor markets.
Saudi Arabia is hosting the Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) in Riyadh, from January 29-30, 2025, bringing together industry experts, thought leaders and policymakers to discuss the latest trends and innovations that are shaping the future of labor market.