By Emma Black
Sierra Leone demonstrated its commitment to advancing labor rights and social protection on the global stage with its participation in the 113th International Labour Conference, held in June 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The ILC, organized annually by the International Labour Organization convenes representatives from governments, workers, and employers to deliberate on international labor standards and emerging workplace challenges.
Leading Sierra Leone’s delegation was the Honorable Mohamed R. Swaray, minister of Labour and Social Security, his leadership was pivotal in articulating the country’s vision for a more inclusive, fair, and secure labor environment, the delegation included a diverse group of stakeholders representatives from trade unions, employers’ organizations, and civil society ensuring that Sierra Leone’s labor ecosystem was comprehensively represented.
During his address and participation in various sessions, Hon. Swaray emphasized Sierra Leone’s labor policy priorities, focusing on four critical areas youth employment, with youth comprising a large segment of the population, the minister underscored the need for targeted programs that promote job creation and skills training he reaffirmed government efforts to align educational curricula with labor market demands to reduce youth unemployment.
The delegation reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to empowering women economically and ensuring gender equality at all levels of employment. Minister Swaray highlighted initiatives aimed at closing the gender pay gap and eliminating workplace discrimination. In light of persistent challenges in occupational safety, especially in sectors such as mining and construction, Sierra Leone advocated for enhanced health and safety regulations, the minister called for greater investment in inspection mechanisms and worker protection standards.
Recognizing the vulnerability of many workers, particularly in the informal sector, Hon. Swaray emphasized the need to strengthen social safety nets. expanding access to social security and economic support systems was presented as a cornerstone of the government’s labor policy. Beyond official proceedings, Sierra Leone’s delegation engaged actively with international counterparts, sharing experiences and exploring collaborative opportunities. Discussions covered key themes including labor migration, informality, and the future of work in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Minister Swaray used the occasion to connect with fellow labor ministers, international labor experts, and development partners. These engagements opened pathways for potential bilateral partnerships and technical support that could strengthen Sierra Leone’s labor governance frameworks.
The 113th International Labour Conference marked a milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing labor reform journey. The proactive and constructive participation of its delegation signaled a strong national commitment to improving employment conditions, promoting social justice, and ensuring that no worker is left behind.
As the global labor landscape continues to evolve, Sierra Leone’s participation at the ILC, under the leadership of Hon. Mohamed R. Swaray, has set the stage for deeper reforms and meaningful progress in national labor policy, the knowledge gained and partnerships formed at the conference are expected to contribute significantly to the country’s socio-economic transformation.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, June 13TH, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
