13th Meeting of Caribbean Labour Ministers

The visit reaffirmed the ILO’s strong partnership with the Caribbean and highlighted shared priorities such as climate change, labour migration, digital transformation, and the need for a just transition.

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (ILO News) — Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), has concluded a landmark official visit to Guyana, where he participated in the 13th ILO Meeting of Caribbean Labour Ministers, marking his first visit to the country in this role.

Held under the theme “Decent Work for Resilience: Securing the Future of Caribbean Labour”, the two-day meeting brought together Labour Ministers, senior officials, and tripartite partners from across the Caribbean to discuss regional priorities, strengthen cooperation, and chart a path toward a more just and sustainable world of work.

In his keynote address at the Opening Ceremony on 07 April 2025, Mr. Houngbo reaffirmed the ILO’s strong partnership with the Caribbean. “The discussions here at this 13th Caribbean Labour Ministers’ Meeting will help us identify the priorities we must set and the strategies we can adopt to effectively renew a new Social Contract as we prepare for the Second World Social Summit,” he said. “I will stand with the Caribbean in ensuring that the realities of the subregion are prioritized within the ILO global agenda and beyond.”

Signatories holding copies of the signed Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) for Guyana, 07 April 2025

A key highlight of the visit was the signing of Guyana’s third Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP). Witnessed by the Director-General, this tripartite agreement reflects Guyana’s continued commitment to promoting decent work through employment creation, social protection, rights at work, and social dialogue. The DWCP was signed by representatives of the Government, employers, and workers’ organizations, with the support of the ILO.

ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo shakes hands with His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana, during a formal meeting in Georgetown, Guyana, 7 April 2025

On 08 April, Mr. Houngbo held high-level courtesy calls with His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, and Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). These meetings highlighted shared priorities and reaffirmed the ILO’s ongoing commitment to addressing pressing regional and global challenges such as climate change, labour migration, digital transformation, and the need for a just transition.

ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo meets with Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of CARICOM in Georgetown, Guyana, 7 April 2025

The Director-General’s engagements throughout the visit reinforced the ILO’s support for regional cooperation, strengthened social dialogue, and highlighted the importance of ensuring Caribbean perspectives are represented in global decision-making. As the region prepares for the 113th International Labour Conference and the Second World Social Summit, this meeting serves as a crucial step in aligning strategies and amplifying the Caribbean’s voice on the world stage.

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All images: © CARICOM Secretariat