Social Dialogue Essential for Navigating Transformations in World of Work, Says ILO Deputy Director at Riyadh Forum

14th Social Dialogue Forum Highlights the Need for Collaboration Between Governments, Workers, and Employers in Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Job Landscape

Social dialogue is critical in addressing the significant changes reshaping the world of work, emphasized Peter Rademaker, Deputy Regional Director for the Arab States of the International Labour Organization (ILO), during the 14th Social Dialogue Forum held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event, held under the patronage of Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al Rajhi, focused on the theme "Social Dialogue for a Promising and Balanced Labour Market."

“The rise of the platform economy, gig work, and other forms of flexible employment presents both opportunities and challenges. While these new employment models offer flexibility and potential for growth, they also raise concerns regarding job security, social protection, and workers' rights,” Rademaker stated. He stressed that constructive consultation, negotiation, and collaboration among governments, employers, and workers are essential to create policies that protect workers while offering the flexibility employers need to remain competitive in a rapidly changing economy.

The Importance of Workplace Dialogue

Rademaker highlighted the significance of fostering workplace dialogue at the enterprise level to enhance productivity, ensure good working conditions, and reduce turnover. “Today, balancing the need for a competitive and agile labor market with the imperative to uphold fairness and inclusivity for all labour market participants is crucial,” he said.

Minister Al Rajhi's Opening Remarks

In his opening speech, Minister Al Rajhi underscored the vital role of social dialogue in promoting understanding and cooperation among government, workers, and employers. He reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to sustainable development and enhance competitiveness in the Saudi labor market.

The forum brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, experts, business leaders, and representatives from the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC) and the Saudi National Committee of Workers Committees (SNC). Participants engaged in discussions regarding the Saudi labor market's challenges, including sustaining workforce nationalization in the private sector, developing skills training and employment support programs, and fostering overall competitiveness.

ILO's Role in Saudi Arabia

Rademaker noted the Kingdom's commitment to social dialogue, a principle central to the ILO’s mission and highly relevant amid the major economic transformations occurring under Vision 2030. He acknowledged the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development's efforts in facilitating dialogue between workers and employers and the establishment of a dedicated social dialogue unit within the Ministry. Additionally, the creation of tripartite Sector Skills Councils aims to promote market-relevant skills among the youth.

Through a joint development cooperation program, the ILO supports Saudi Arabia in advancing employment and labour market policies, strengthening social dialogue, ensuring adherence to fundamental principles and rights at work, improving skills governance, and enhancing occupational safety and health standards.

The 14th Social Dialogue Forum served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders, reflecting Saudi Arabia's dedication to building a balanced labour market that meets the needs of its rapidly changing economy while ensuring the rights and protections of its workforce.