ILO Workshop Promotes Safe and Sustainable Practices in Iraq’s Oil and Gas Sector

Opening the workshop, First Deputy Governor Mr. Zaid Al-Emara emphasized the importance of collaboration among government, private sector, and international organizations.

In a significant move towards enhancing labour conditions in Iraq’s oil and gas industry, the International Labour Organization (ILO) hosted a workshop in partnership with the local government, represented by First Deputy Governor Mr.Zaid Al-Emara. The event convened senior officials from the Basra Chamber of Industry, workers' organizations, national and international companies, and key figures from the Social Security Department, Labour and Vocational Training Directorates, and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) from both Baghdad and Basra. The ILO Deputy Regional Director for the Arab States and the ILO Iraq Country Coordinator were also present.

Opening the workshop, First Deputy Governor Mr. Zaid Al-Emara emphasized the importance of collaboration among government, private sector, and international organizations. He stated, “We take this opportunity today, with the presence of all government parties, the private sector, and the International Labour Organization, to find solutions that encourage youth to work in the private sector. Our local government has a specific vision to utilize social responsibility projects, including specialized academies aimed at developing the skills of job seekers in various fields required by the labour market.”

The workshop provided a platform for social dialogue among diverse stakeholders to address critical issues such as improving workplace safety, enforcing stronger labour rights, and integrating environmentally sustainable practices across the sector.

ILO Deputy Regional Director for the Arab States, Mr. Peter Redemaker, highlighted the workshop's significance, stating, “Today’s workshop is an essential step in the right direction. Through this rapid assessment, we aim to gain a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by oil companies in Iraq, focusing on employment practices, worker rights, and the impact of the industry on local communities. We must also recognize the critical intersection of the oil and gas industry with climate change and Just Transition.”

The workshop presented findings from a rapid assessment of labor conditions, work environments, and environmental practices in Basra’s oil and gas sector. Key results revealed significant disparities: female participation stood at 40% in international companies versus 25% in local firms, and skills development was offered by only 50% of international companies compared to 26% of local ones. Alarmingly, 10% of men and 57% of women reported experiencing harassment at work.

The assessment also identified serious gaps in support for employees with disabilities, with only one international and 23 local companies employing such individuals. While 63% of international companies provided safe transportation for workers, this was true for only 55% of local companies. Furthermore, childcare facilities were scarce, with only one international and four local companies offering nursery services.

Social security measures also varied significantly: 63% of international companies had over half of their employees registered, compared to just 27% of local companies. Paid maternity leave was unavailable in 85% of local and 50% of international companies. Alarmingly, 75% of international and half of local companies were unaware of their climate change impact, with very few having policies to address the issue. Transparent greenhouse gas emissions reports were produced by only one international and two local companies.

In light of these findings, the workshop proposed several key recommendations aimed at improving employment practices, enhancing workplace safety, promoting environmental sustainability, and increasing the involvement of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and young entrepreneurs in the sector’s supply chain.

In conclusion, the event underscored the necessity of continued collaboration among national and local governments, workers' organizations, employers’ organizations, and private sector companies to drive meaningful change. By prioritizing worker welfare and environmental sustainability, Iraq’s oil and gas sector can significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth and promote social and environmental progress.