Riyadh will host the second edition of the Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) starting tomorrow, January 29, 2025, bringing together 45 labor ministers, heads of international organizations, 200 speakers, and over 5,000 participants from more than 100 countries. The two-day event, held under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to addressing rapidly evolving labor market challenges through global collaboration.
Context and Background
Building on the success of the inaugural conference, this year’s GLMC is organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in partnership with key international bodies including the International Labour Organization (ILO), the World Bank, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the Misk Foundation. The conference serves as a platform for dialogue on labor market innovation, sustainable skills development, and global economic resilience.
Key Details and Agenda
The conference will feature a ministerial roundtable for labor ministers, the signing of multiple bilateral agreements, and an exhibition showcasing MHRSD projects that have received international recognition. Over 50 specialized dialogue sessions will address topics such as sustainable skills to keep pace with rapid changes, strategies to boost productivity, and challenges facing youth. Additionally, the conference will promote green jobs as part of the global transition toward a fair and sustainable economy, and discuss the role of small businesses and new work models in creating innovative job opportunities.
Implications and International Impact
Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi emphasized that the conference aims to unite key stakeholders worldwide to create a shared vision for sustainable growth and prosperity. The participation of 45 labor ministers and 5,000 delegates from over 100 countries highlights the event’s significance in shaping global labor policies. By fostering dialogue between governments, private sector leaders, and international organizations, the conference seeks to produce actionable strategies that address pressing labor market challenges, including youth unemployment and the need for reskilling in the face of automation and digitalization.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The conference aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by enhancing the attractiveness and global competitiveness of the Saudi labor market. Through international cooperation and the exchange of best practices, the Kingdom aims to develop a dynamic, sustainable labor ecosystem that empowers citizens and attracts global talent. This event reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role as a leader in shaping the future of work, contributing to economic diversification, and fostering inclusive growth that benefits both local and global communities.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Global Labor Market Conference?
A1. The Global Labor Market Conference is an international forum held in Riyadh, bringing together labor ministers, experts, and organizations to discuss innovative solutions and challenges in labor markets worldwide.
Q2. When will the second edition of the conference take place?
A2. The second edition is scheduled for January 29–30, 2025, hosted in Riyadh under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
Q3. Who is organizing the conference?
A3. The conference is organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) in collaboration with international partners such as the ILO, World Bank, UNDP, OECD, and Misk Foundation.
Q4. How many countries are participating in the conference?
A4. Over 100 countries are represented, with more than 5,000 participants, including 45 labor ministers and 200 speakers.
Q5. What is the main objective of the Global Labor Market Conference?
A5. The main objective is to unite global stakeholders to develop actionable strategies that promote sustainable growth and address labor market challenges.
Q6. What topics will be discussed at the conference?
A6. Topics include sustainable skills, productivity strategies, youth challenges, green jobs, small businesses, and new work models to support economic growth.
Q7. How does the conference support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?
A7. The conference enhances the competitiveness of the Saudi labor market and aligns with Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification, talent development, and global leadership.
Q8. What is a ministerial roundtable?
A8. A ministerial roundtable is a closed-door meeting where labor ministers from various countries discuss policies and share best practices to improve labor market conditions.
Q9. Will agreements be signed during the conference?
A9. Yes, multiple agreements will be signed, focusing on labor cooperation, skills development, and joint initiatives between Saudi Arabia and partner nations.
Q10. What role does the International Labour Organization play?
A10. The ILO collaborates in organizing dialogue sessions, providing expertise on labor standards, and ensuring international best practices are integrated into discussions.
Q11. What are green jobs?
A11. Green jobs are employment opportunities that contribute to environmental sustainability, such as renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly construction.
Q12. How does the conference address youth challenges?
A12. It focuses on unlocking youth potential by discussing education, skills training, and employment pathways to reduce youth unemployment.
Q13. What is the Misk Foundation’s involvement?
A13. The Misk Foundation, a Saudi nonprofit, co-organizes sessions to foster entrepreneurship and innovation among young leaders.
Q14. Are there any exhibitions at the conference?
A14. Yes, an exhibition will highlight MHRSD projects that have received local, regional, and international recognition for excellence.
Q15. Who is the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development?
A15. The minister is Ahmed Al-Rajhi, who oversees the organization of the conference and represents Saudi Arabia’s labor policy.
Q16. What is the significance of King Salman’s patronage?
A16. The royal patronage underscores the high priority Saudi Arabia places on global labor market collaboration and Vision 2030 objectives.
Q17. How does the conference promote sustainable skills?
A17. It explores strategies to develop skills that keep pace with technological changes and economic shifts, ensuring workforce readiness.
Q18. What is the expected outcome of the conference?
A18. Expected outcomes include shared recommendations, signed agreements, and actionable plans to improve labor market competitiveness globally.
Q19. How many dialogue sessions are planned?
A19. Over 50 specialized dialogue sessions are planned, covering a wide range of labor market topics.
Q20. Where can I find more information about the conference?
A20. Official updates are available through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
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