G7 Ministers Back Decent Work and Fair Labour Standards

Houngbo warned that rising demand for critical minerals could increase the risk of forced labour if adequate safeguards are not put in place.

Labour and employment ministers from the G7 countries have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting quality jobs and strengthening decent work, highlighting the role of fair labour standards in building resilient economies and supporting sustainable growth. The discussions took place during a meeting convened by France's Minister of Labour and Solidarity, Jean-Pierre Farandou, on the sidelines of the International Labour Conference at the International Labour Organization (ILO) headquarters in Geneva.

ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo addressed the gathering, pointing to the major changes reshaping global labour markets, including economic uncertainty, technological advances and growing imbalances in employment opportunities. He stressed that economic transformation should be accompanied by social justice, ensuring workers are protected while economies adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

New measures target forced labour and worker exploitation

The key outcome of the meeting was support for practical initiatives to improve labour standards and protect workers from exploitation. Ministers endorsed the G7 Toolkit for Standards-Based Criteria to Identify Risks of Forced Labour in the Extraction of Critical Minerals. The resource is intended to help governments and businesses identify and address labour abuses linked to the growing global demand for minerals used in technologies such as batteries, electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.

Houngbo warned that rising demand for critical minerals could increase the risk of forced labour if adequate safeguards are not put in place.

He said the industries powering future economies must be built on respect for workers' rights and internationally recognised labour standards.

The Director-General also welcomed efforts by the French Presidency to improve protections for migrant workers through a toolkit designed to promote fair recruitment practices and reduce the risk of exploitation during the hiring process.

Skills development and AI training move up the agenda

Alongside labour rights issues, ministers discussed the growing impact of artificial intelligence and technological change on the future workforce.

To help workers adapt, G7 members agreed to strengthen cooperation on skills development through the creation of a new G7 AI Training Hub. The initiative aims to support workforce training and help people gain the skills needed in increasingly digital and technology-driven labour markets.

Participants also committed to improving labour market participation across all age groups while supporting greater labour mobility and career progression opportunities.

The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge to maintain a level global playing field where economic competitiveness is balanced with strong labour protections.

Houngbo said the ILO stands ready to support G7 countries as they implement the agreed initiatives and continue efforts to promote decent work, fair competition and inclusive economic development.

The organisation believes that strengthening labour rights and creating quality employment opportunities will remain essential as economies navigate rapid technological and social change in the years ahead.