KATHMANDU, JUNE 17

The Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Gilbert F Houngbo, called upon countries to 'bend the arc of history in favour of social justice' as he addressed a two-day World of Work Summit in Geneva, Switzerland.

"Greater social justice gives us a cause to rally round. But is much more than that. It is a driving force that can steer us towards a more equitable and sustainable future. As such, it must become our guiding principle, for both policies and action," said Houngbo.

"Social justice is essential to make our societies and economies more cohesive, productive and peaceful. It is essential if we are to restore confidence in our institutions and provide proof of effective multilateralism that meets people's expectations," he added.

"Let us seize this opportunity and take this chance to show our collective commitment and determination. And let us not be afraid to be bold in our approach."

The summit, which took place on June 14 and 15, during the 111th International Labour Conference, brought together 16 heads of state and government, as well as high-level representatives from the United Nations, other international organisations, and employers' and workers' organisations.

A version of this article appears in the print on June 18, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.