Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar Chamber is participating in the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference, currently underway in Geneva, Switzerland, and continuing until June 12. The conference has brought together representatives of governments, employers, and workers from 187 member states of the International Labour Organization (ILO) to discuss key global labour issues and strategies for shaping the futureof work.
The Qatar Chamber delegation comprises Eng. Nasser Ahmed Al Meer, advisor to the Chairman of Qatar Chamber for Labour Affairs and employers’ representative in Qatar; Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, director of the Legal Affairs Department; and Hamad Ali Al Marri, director of the Committees and Business Councils AffairsDepartment.
The annual conference serves as a global platform for dialogue among governments, employers and workers on labour standards, employment policies, social protection, and emerging challenges affecting labour markets worldwide.
Speaking during the conference, Eng. Nasser Al Meer commended the International Labour Organization for its continued efforts to promote economic development, social justice and decent work across the globe. He stressed that the rapid pace of technological advancement and digital transformation is fundamentally reshaping labour markets, making investment in human capital development and future-ready skills more important than ever.
Al Meer noted that technological innovation, automation and artificial intelligence are creating entirely new professions and transforming traditional job roles. He said these developments require employers to modernise workplaces, adopt innovative business solutions and continuously upgrade workforce capabilities to meet evolving labour market demands.
“Digital transformation is creating unprecedented opportunities while also presenting significant challenges,” Al Meer said. “Employers must adapt to these changes by fostering innovation, enhancing workforce skills and creating flexible work environments capable of responding to future labour market requirements.”
He emphasised that strengthening workforce competencies and preparing young people for emerging industries are critical to sustaining economic growth and enhancing the competitiveness of national economies in an increasingly digital world.
Al Meer further highlighted Qatar Chamber’s role as the representative of the private sector and employers in Qatar, noting that the Chamber highly values the efforts undertaken by the State of Qatar to strengthen international cooperation and promote the exchange of expertise and best practices in labour and employment matters.
He pointed out that effective social dialogue among governments, employers and workers remains a cornerstone for achieving balanced and sustainable economic development. Such cooperation, he said, is essential for addressing labour market challenges and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared widely.
The employers’ representative also underscored the importance of harnessing digital transformation and artificial intelligence technologies to support sustainable development goals and create decent employment opportunities for all segments of society. He noted that responsible adoption of advanced technologies can contribute significantly to productivity, innovation and job creation while improving working conditions.
Reaffirming Qatar Chamber’s commitment to the principles and objectives of the International Labour Organization, Al Meer stressed the Chamber’s support for initiatives that promote workers’ rights, social justice and inclusive economic growth.
He also expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and renewed Qatar Chamber’s support for Palestinian workers. Al Meer called on the international community to intensify efforts to alleviate the suffering of Palestinian workers, particularly in the Gaza Strip, and to safeguard their fundamental rights, including the right to work and live in dignity.
The 114th Session of the International Labour Conference is addressing a range of critical issues, including employment policies, labour rights, social protection systems, workplace safety, and the impact of technological change on the future of work. The gathering provides an opportunity for member states and social partners to exchange perspectives and develop collaborative approaches to emerging labour market challenges.