…Houngbo stressed that economic growth without the creation of decent jobs remains a major concern.
Washington, D.C- The iNews Times| The Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, has cautioned that while global labour markets appear relatively stable, millions of workers continue to face serious structural challenges.
Speaking at the ongoing IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., Houngbo said persistent deficits in decent work are undermining both social cohesion and economic resilience.
He revealed that about 284 million workers globally still live in extreme poverty, while 2.1 billion, nearly 58 per cent of the global workforce, remain in informal employment, highlighting the depth of inequality in the labour system.
Despite steady unemployment rates and continued economic growth into early 2026, Houngbo described labour markets as fragile, citing rising sovereign debt, limited fiscal space, and global uncertainty as major constraints on governments’ ability to support workers.
He also pointed to the ongoing Middle East conflict as a factor worsening existing vulnerabilities, noting that its impact extends beyond affected countries through disruptions to energy markets, trade, and supply chains.
According to him, the most affected groups include low-income households, informal and migrant workers, and small businesses, with increased risks of child labour, forced labour, and worsening working conditions.
Houngbo called for urgent policy action, urging governments to strengthen social protection systems, support livelihoods, and prioritise job creation and income security.
He stressed that economic growth without the creation of decent jobs remains a major concern, warning that societies become more vulnerable when workers lack protection, stability, and a voice in the labour system.
“This is why the persistence of decent work deficits is not only an economic concern but also a rights concern,” he said.
