Amman: President of the General Federation of Jordanian Trade Unions (GFJTU) Khaled Fanatsah stated that decent work and social protection serve as the foundation for fair and sustainable development. He highlighted the need for collaborative efforts, a stronger tripartite partnership among production stakeholders, and inclusive policies that address the needs of the most vulnerable groups in society.
According to Jordan News Agency, Fanatsah made these remarks during a workshop organized by the International Labor Organization (ILO) titled "Promoting Decent Work in Jordan's National Public Works Program." The event was attended by Executive Board Member Bushra Salman, government entities, international organizations, and representatives from the Jordan Chamber of Industry. Fanatsah addressed the persistent labor market challenges in Jordan, including high unemployment rates, particularly among youth and women, and the economic and social pressures stemming from hosting a large number of refugees.
He emphasized the significance of investing in infrastructure and social services to ensure social protection and adapt to regional and global changes. Fanatsah also acknowledged the ILO's continuous support for the Public Works Program and praised the cooperation of national and international institutions in promoting sustainable development, supporting Jordan's economy in alignment with Royal directives.
Fanatsah expressed optimism about achieving a national consensus among all partners to establish a clear roadmap for the program's success. He noted the program's role in creating temporary jobs, supporting local communities, and enhancing resilience during crises. He stressed the importance of building on existing achievements to make the program more sustainable, impactful, and closely aligned with national strategies.
The workshop addressed various themes, including strategic objectives and alignment, program design considerations, experiences of partner UN agencies, and the development of a roadmap for the program's next phase.