Qatar: Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a just transition for workers by aligning labor policies with environmental sustainability and preparing the workforce for climate and technological shifts. Speaking at the ministerial meeting of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue, HE Minister of Labor Dr. Ali bin Smaikh Al Marri emphasized the country's efforts in investing in green skills and modern training systems to ensure workers, particularly migrant workers, are ready to adapt to the demands of a changing global economy.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Marri stated that Qatar's approach, guided by the Qatar National Vision 2030, seeks to balance environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social justice. The Ministry of Labor has integrated the concept of a just transition into labor market policies by upskilling workers, retraining those in traditional sectors, and supporting their gradual move into green jobs and sustainable industries. These efforts are being carried out in partnership with the private sector and educational and training institutions.
Addressing labor mobility, the minister highlighted Qatar's focus on regulating the movement of workers and skills across the Asia-Gulf Cooperation Council corridor. He mentioned that safe and well-managed labor mobility can drive economic and social development when based on transparency, equal opportunity, social protection, and respect for human dignity.
On the topic of the growing platform economy and non-traditional forms of work, Dr. Al Marri stressed the need to update legal and regulatory frameworks to keep pace with these changes. He emphasized that such frameworks should encourage innovation while safeguarding workers' rights, ensuring decent working conditions, and effective social protection systems.
Dr. Al Marri also underscored the role of diversity and skills development in enhancing productivity and competitiveness in regional labor markets. He called for expanded partnerships with the private sector, international organizations, and civil society to share expertise and best practice. He highlighted that the Abu Dhabi Dialogue has been an effective platform for cooperation between labor-sending and labor-receiving countries, promoting fair and orderly labor mobility.
HE the minister expressed Qatar's readiness to continue working with member states and international partners to develop more inclusive and sustainable labor mobility policies. He also thanked Oman for its leadership of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue during the current cycle, noting that this year's agenda addresses issues central to the future of labor markets and requires flexible responses and long-term cooperation.