A high-level delegation from the International Labour Organization (ILO) Regional Office for English-Speaking West Africa is in Liberia.
Members of the delegation are here to re-engage with their colleagues of the Tripartite Council on the implementation of key labour programs and projects that were previously stalled due to internal divisions within the Liberia Labour Congress (LLC).
The delegation, according to a release, welcomed the recent reconciliation among parties within the LLC.
They noted that the renewed unity creates a conducive environment for the ILO to collaborate effectively with all constituents of the tripartite structure government, employers and workers. The delegation emphasized the importance of social dialogue as a critical tool for advancing inclusive and sustainable labour initiatives in the country.
The Head of Delegation, Madam Innolata Aninyangarar, commended Labour Minister Cooper W. Kruah for his timely intervention in resolving the dispute within the LLC.
Madam Aninyangarar said, the mission aims to introduce a new ILO-supported project in Liberia, and to strengthen engagement with workers’ organizations; employers; government representatives and development partners.
She reaffirmed ILO commitment to support Liberia in developing a roadmap for the implementation of the Decent Work Country Program (DWCP), which is already operational in Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
Madam Aninyangarar attributed the delay in Liberia’s rollout to the earlier leadership crisis within the LLC.
The DWCP is a four- to six-year strategic framework focused on strengthening social dialogue, improving employment outcomes and developing a comprehensive national employment policy.
Additionally, the ILO’s new project support to Liberia will prioritize technical and vocational education and training (TVET), employment promotion, social
dialogue, and the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
In response, Labour Minister Kruah highlighted the proactive role played by the Ministry in facilitating reconciliation among the aggrieved parties of the LLC. Kruah assured the delegation of Liberia’s readiness to fully participate in international labour engagements.