JEDDAH: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is preparing to host the 5th Session of the Islamic Conference of Labour Ministers (ICLM) from November 21st to 23rd, 2023, in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The central theme of the conference, “Innovative Solutions and Digitalization of Labour and Employment Services in OIC Member States,” underscores the OIC’s commitment to addressing critical issues affecting the Muslim world in the evolving landscape of work.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of Azerbaijan will play host to the ICLM, providing a platform for labour ministers from OIC Member States to convene and deliberate on strategic initiatives. The conference aims to explore innovative solutions and strategies for digitalizing labour and employment services in the diverse contexts of OIC nations.
An essential aspect of the conference will be the inaugural session of the General Assembly of the OIC Labour Centre, a recently established specialized institution headquartered in Baku. This marks a significant development, and the conference will serve as a forum to discuss and plan the support needed for the newly established OIC Labour Centre.
The conference’s discussions are expected to revolve around key challenges and opportunities in the changing world of work, with a focus on leveraging new technologies, understanding employment trends, and enhancing social protection measures. Collaboration among OIC Member States will be a central theme, addressing issues such as unemployment, developing workforce capacity, and promoting social protection initiatives.
Furthermore, the activation of the OIC Labour Centre is anticipated to foster mutually beneficial cooperation among OIC Member States, particularly in the critical areas of labour, employment, and social protection. As high levels of unemployment persist in many OIC countries, especially among the youth, the conference becomes instrumental in boosting cooperation and devising strategies for job creation and socio-economic development.