ESCWA Publication: E/ESCWA/CL2.GPID/2026/TP.3
Country: Arab region
Publication Type: Information material
Cluster: Gender Justice, Population and Inclusive Development
Focus Area: Inclusive development, Future of employment
Initiatives: Job creation, Reducing inequalities, Including persons with disabilities in the labour market
SDGs: Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
Keywords: Arab countries, Continuing education, Decent work, Digital literacy, Educational systems, Employment, Labour market, Recommendations, Right to work, Skills development, Social justice, Social security, Unemployment, Youth employment
Strengthening the nexus of skills development, decent work and social justice in the Arab region
June 2026
The present paper examines the nexus between skills development, decent work and social justice in the Arab region, highlighting the importance of inclusive and future-oriented skills systems in addressing structural inequalities, promoting access to decent work, and supporting just transitions. It considers how persistent labour-market challenges, social exclusion and weak alignment between education and labour-market demand continue to constrain social mobility and equitable participation.
Drawing on the standards and strategies of the International Labour Organization, and the regional tools of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, the paper outlines a comprehensive reform agenda grounded in equity, rights, participation and social dialogue. It emphasizes the need for more inclusive, responsive and sustainably financed skills systems, underpinned by the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and aligned with both employer demand and learners' aspirations for dignified, fulfilling and future-oriented work.
Related content
Inclusive development, Future of employment
The present paper examines the nexus between skills development, decent work and social justice in the Arab region, highlighting the importance of inclusive and future-oriented skills systems in addressing structural inequalities, promoting access to decent work, and supporting just transitions. It considers how persistent labour-market challenges, social exclusion and weak alignment between education and labour-market demand continue to constrain social mobility and equitable participation.
Drawing on the standards and strategies of the International Labour Organization, and the regional tools of the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, the paper outlines a comprehensive reform agenda grounded in equity, rights, participation and social dialogue. It emphasizes the need for more inclusive, responsive and sustainably financed skills systems, underpinned by the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and aligned with both employer demand and learners' aspirations for dignified, fulfilling and future-oriented work.
