A new assessment by the UN International Labour Organization (ILO) warns that global inequality among workers will continue to worsen unless urgent reforms are implemented. The report calls on governments, employers, and labour organizations to place workers’ dignity and rights at the centre of economic decision-making. Maria Helena André, Director of ILO’s Bureau for Workers’ Activities, emphasized that trade unions worldwide have united around shared priorities to promote social justice and build a more inclusive future of work. However, she cautioned that while economies and labour markets are evolving rapidly, protections for workers and governance systems have failed to keep pace, resulting in growing insecurity and inequality.
The report highlights that rapid technological advances, climate change, demographic transitions, and weakening social protections are reshaping the world of work faster than policies can respond. Without decisive action, vulnerable groups—especially those in informal, temporary, or low-wage employment—are expected to face increasing hardship. The ILO stresses that decent work and labour rights must remain non-negotiable, economic governance should prioritize people over profits, and both technological and climate transitions must be fair and inclusive, adapted to local realities. Trade unions are also being urged to evolve to remain relevant in this changing environment.
The findings were released ahead of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, where more than 14,000 participants—including Heads of State, ministers, employers, civil society, and youth representatives—will gather to renew commitments made at the 1995 Social Summit in Copenhagen. The Doha Summit will address the resurgence of inequality, insecurity, and social fragmentation worldwide. In a message ahead of the event, ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo called for unity and ambition in building a fairer global economy, stating that everyone deserves equal access to quality jobs and shared prosperity. UN News will provide live coverage and updates from the Summit’s sessions and discussions.
