The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has called on governments to prioritise social justice as workers across the globe celebrate 2023 Workers Day.

ILO director-general Gilbert Houngbo made the call in a statement to mark International Workers Day on Monday in Abuja.

“This is a moment for pride, celebration and hope. After three years of the COVID-19 crisis, followed by inflation, conflict, and food and fuel supply shocks, we badly need this. But the promises of renewal made during the pandemic, of ‘building back better’, have so far not been delivered for the great majority of workers worldwide,” stated the ILO chief.

He added, “Globally, real wages have fallen, poverty is rising, and inequality seems more entrenched than ever. Enterprises have been hard-hit. Many could not cope with the cumulative effects of recent unexpected events. Small and micro-enterprises were particularly affected, and many have ceased operations.”

Mr Houngbo explained that people felt their sacrifices to get through COVID-19 were not recognised and rewarded.

“Their voices are not being heard clearly enough. This, combined with a perceived lack of opportunities, has created a disturbing level of mistrust. It doesn’t have to be like this. We are still the masters of our fate, but if we are to shape a new, more stable and equitable world, we must choose a different path – one that prioritises social justice,” the ILO director-general explained.

Mr Houngbo said social justice was achievable and essential for a sustainable future.

“How do we get there? First and foremost, our policies and actions must be human-centred. This is to allow people to pursue both their material well-being and their spiritual development in conditions of freedom and dignity, economic security and equal opportunity,” he stressed, noting that this approach “is not new.”

“It was set out and agreed in the aftermath of World War II when the ILO’s international membership signed the 1944 Declaration of Philadelphia,” stated Mr Houngbo.

“This visionary document set out guiding principles for our economic and social systems, that they should not be turned exclusively to hitting specific growth rates or other statistical targets but to address human needs and aspirations,” added the ILO leader.

(NAN)