Minister of Labour and Rehabilitation for the Government of National Unity (GNU), Ali Al-Abed, along with a delegation from the ministry, participated in the 112th session of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Conference held in Geneva, Switzerland.
The conference, which is the largest global gathering in the field of labor, aims to discuss vital labor-related issues and ways to improve working conditions worldwide, setting them into international labor standards, according to a post by the Ministry of Labour and Rehabilitation on Facebook.
The ministry outlined that this year’s conference agenda includes topics on fundamental principles and rights at work, setting standards related to biological hazards, decent work, and social justice.
In his opening speech, Al-Abed emphasized the importance of international cooperation in improving working conditions and providing a safe and sustainable work environment for workers. He highlighted the efforts of the Government of National Unity to enhance the labor system and develop local legislation in line with international labor agreements and recommendations.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.