In a bid to enhance labor rights and improve working conditions, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Badr Abdelatty, met with Gilbert Houngbo, the Secretary-General of the International Labor Organization (ILO), in Geneva on Monday. The meeting focused on reinforcing collaboration between Egypt and the ILO, aiming to create decent job opportunities and foster a more supportive work environment in the country.
Minister Abdelatty outlined significant developments in Egypt’s labor landscape, including the formation of 50 workers’ syndicates in 2024, a key step in enhancing worker representation and advocacy. He also highlighted Egypt’s ratification of the Maritime Labor Convention earlier this year, signaling the country’s commitment to upholding international labor standards.
In addition, the minister revealed that a draft bill regulating the rights of domestic workers is set to be introduced to the Egyptian parliament soon. The legislation aims to improve protections for housekeepers and ensure their legal rights are upheld.
Abdelatty called for the ILO’s technical assistance to help Egypt comply with the provisions of the Maritime Labor Convention, ensuring the country’s labor framework remains in line with global best practices.