Qatar Chairs meeting of GCC Labour Ministers Committee

Doha: Today, Qatar chaired the tenth meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Committee of Labour Ministers during the GCC Ministerial Meetings o...

Doha: Today, Qatar chaired the tenth meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Committee of Labour Ministers during the GCC Ministerial Meetings on Civil Service, Labour, and Social Development.

The session was chaired by Minister of Labour HE Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri, in the presence of Secretary General of the GCC HE Jassim bin Mohammed Al Badiwi, and representatives from all member states. They explored ways to enhance collaboration in the Gulf labour market, learn from the successful practices of GCC countries, and discuss many issues of common interest to the GCC countries, such as nationalisation and labour law harmonisation.

They discussed methods to strengthen cooperation within the Gulf labour market, drawing from the successful experiences of GCC nations, and addressed key topics of mutual interest, including nationalisation efforts and the harmonisation of labour laws. In his address, Minister of Labour, HE Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri, highlighted the impact of the unique circumstances in the Arab region on labour markets, employment, occupational safety, and health, as well as the influence of the digital revolution on the workforce. He also focused on challenges such as forced labour, human trafficking, and child labour.

He emphasised the importance of implementing policies to enhance social protection programs and preserve workers' rights in the private sector. Additionally, he underlined the need to update laws to make the job market more efficient and appealing to both national and international talent. His Excellency added that Arab Gulf countries have similar labour laws, wage protection, and occupational safety, which helps to ensure the success of effective decisions and initiatives.