ILO: key workers deserve better

Countries need to improve the working conditions and earnings of the key workers who were so essential during the Covid crisis, a new report from United Nations labour agency the ILO says.

The report, World Employment and Social Outlook 2023: The value of essential work , examines the ways economies and societies depend on key workers, and how they are undervalued. It states that their poor working conditions lead to high staff turnovers and labour shortages, jeopardising the provision of basic services. Improvements in working conditions and greater investment in food systems, health care and other key sectors are necessary for building economic and social resilience to shocks, the report finds.

It goes on to outline how countries can identify gaps in decent work and economic resilience in respect of their key workers and essential services, then develop a strategy to address them through strengthened policies and investment.

“Healthcare workers, supermarket cashiers, delivery workers, postal workers, seafarers, cleaners, and others supplying food and necessities continued to perform their jobs, day in and day out, even at the height of the pandemic, often at great personal risk,” said ILO director-general, Gilbert F Houngbo.

“Valuing key workers means ensuring that they receive adequate pay and work in good conditions. Decent work is an objective for all workers, but it is particularly critical for key workers, who provide vital necessities and services both in good times and bad.”