MUSCAT: The General Federation of Oman Workers, in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), hosted a two-day forum titled "Towards a More Sustainable Social Dialogue", held in Movenpick Hotel Muscat. The two-day event, opened on Monday, February 3, 2025, was held under the auspices of Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology.
Deliberations during the forum will focus on enhancing social dialogue in Oman amidst challenges arising from the evolving labour market. Spotlighting new work patterns and economic diversification, various presentations will also seek to celebrate the country’s advancements in labour laws and social protection. International and local participants are in attendance to share insights and discuss the role of social dialogue in fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Nabhan bin Ahmed Al Battashi, Chairman of the General Federation of Oman Workers, noted: "It is imperative that we establish a robust institutional framework for social dialogue to effectively address the ongoing developments in the labour market. We must also prioritise the ratification of essential ILO conventions, particularly those safeguarding trade union rights and ensuring the fundamental freedom of association for all workers."
Al Battashi also reflected on Oman’s success in overcoming the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to tripartite consultations that helped maintain employment contracts and reinstate thousands of workers. This culminated in the introduction of a new labour law, marking significant strides in workers’ rights protection.
Fayez bin Ali al Mutairi, Director-General of the International Labour Organization, praised Oman for its recent legislative reforms, aligning national laws with international standards and fostering a balance between economic growth and workers' rights.
A key topic for discussion was the importance of best practices in tripartite dialogue, with speakers presenting international models to institutionalise and strengthen social dialogue processes. Emphasising integration among the three key stakeholders, workers, employers, and the government, the event also underscored the importance of renewed union involvement.
Day 1 featured two discussion sessions. The first session covered papers on the international framework for social dialogue and Oman’s legislative framework, along with community participation in shaping economic policies. The second session explored Singapore's approach to social dialogue and its impact on business growth, presented by international experts including Shirley Low from Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress and Shaikha al Alawi from OCCI
The forum will continue February 4, with additional discussions on social dialogue experiences from Norway and the role of social protection in shaping labour market policies.
Importantly, the "Towards a More Sustainable Social Dialogue" forum supports Oman Vision 2040 by promoting inclusive economic growth and strengthening social dialogue. Through collaboration between workers, employers, and the government, the event aligns with Vision 2040’s goals of enhancing workers' rights, supporting economic diversification, and ensuring long-term social stability for sustainable development.
The event has reinforced Oman’s commitment to social dialogue, legislative reforms, and protecting workers' rights in line with international standards.
Caption: Oman’s "Sustainable Social Dialogue" forum discusses labour market challenges and social dialogue’s role in advancing Vision 2040’s goals.
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