Muscat Workshop Strengthens Labour Policies with ILO Support

A 4-day workshop called "International Labour Standards: Building Local Policies and Capacities" started today in Muscat, Oman. The event is organized by the Ministry of Labour with help from the International Labour Organization (ILO). Experts, government officials, and private sector specialists from Oman and nearby countries are attending. The opening ceremony was held under Dr. Mahad Said Ba'owain, Minister of Labour.

The workshop aims to help Oman and the region make labour laws that follow international standards. It also teaches officials how to make better labour policies, explains the role of government, employers, and workers, and shares experience from other countries. The goal is to improve workplaces and protect workers.

Khalid Salim Al Ghammari, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Labour, said that jobs and work patterns are changing fast. He said international labour standards help governments balance economic growth, workers’ rights, and safe work environments.

Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, said this is the first program like this in the region. He added that these standards, used since 1919, help ensure social justice, safe workplaces, and economic growth. He also said that working together and following these rules is important to stop forced labour and improve worker safety.

Faisal Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the workshop helps improve Oman’s labour laws and strengthens cooperation between government, employers, and workers. Nabhan Ahmed Al Battashi, Chairman of the General Federation of Oman Workers, said Oman is updating its work policies to match international rules.

The workshop has training, presentations, and discussions on making policies that follow global rules, improving labour market management, and using social dialogue to support fairness. Participants also learned from other countries about occupational safety and health. They said the workshop will help Oman make work environments safer, support economic growth, and protect workers, in line with Oman Vision 2040.