More people in decent jobs means stronger and more inclusive economic growth. Improved growth means more resources to create decent jobs. It is a simple equation but one that has been largely neglected in international policy-making both before and after the 2008 financial crisis. With the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development we have a once-in-a-generation chance to make a change and improve the lives of billions.
We cannot understate the challenges that lie ahead for the world of work. Global unemployment remains unacceptably high at around 200 million people, while hundreds of millions more are in working poverty. In addition, the next 15 years will see major transformations in the way we work, driven by technological, environmental and demographic changes. But we can realize the vision of sustainable development of this transformative agenda by 2030 if we all come together in a global partnership of governments, business and trade unions, as well as multilateral organizations, civil society and ordinary people. Each and every one of us has a role to play, to ensure no one is left behind.
