The XXII Inter-American Conference of Ministers of Labor (IACML) was officially inaugurated today in Bogotá, Colombia, bringing together the high-level authorities of Labor from across the Americas. Hosted by the Organization of American States (OAS) in partnership with Colombia's Ministry of Labor, the two-day event focuses on shaping a new roadmap for the region's labor policies under the theme: "The Future of Work in the Americas: Laying the Foundations for Peace, Social Justice, and Climate Action."
The inaugural session featured opening remarks from the Minister of Labor of Colombia, Gloria Inés Ramírez Rios, and the OAS Assistant Secretary General, Ambassador Nestor Mendez. Both leaders underscored the urgency of this year's conference as labor markets across the region face rapid transformations driven by technological innovation and the growing impacts of climate change.
Minister Ramírez Ríos stressed "This conference is vital for us, not only because it allows us to articulate the agenda for the region, but also because it emphasizes the debate on technologies and the articulation between training, education and work. We have a big point that is the motto of this meeting."
Ambassador Mendez, in his remarks, reaffirmed the OAS's commitment to fostering cooperation among member states, noting that "I especially celebrate that this, is the first time in the history of the IACML that we directly address the environmental dimension and make commitments around the just transition, labor reconversion and training in skills necessary for green and blue jobs, the contributions of the Ministries of Labor and public policies to comprehensively and coherently face the challenges of the climate crisis."
The Director General of the International Labor Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, attended as a special guest, underlining the close and long-standing partnership between the OAS and the ILO. He emphasized "the need for decent work, social cohesion and social justice" emphasizing that the conference was an "Opportunity to reaffirm these values and commit to social dialogue to build a better, more inclusive and sustainable future throughout the Americas".
Throughout the day, Ministers and Heads of Delegation participated in thematic dialogues on key areas critical to the future of work. These exchanges focused on technological innovation, climate action, and social justice and peace, highlighting the cross-sectoral challenges affecting labor markets across the Americas. Ministers shared their experiences, underscoring the pressing need for greater regional coordination and collaboration to address these issues.
The dialogue underlined how governments can adapt to technological innovations that are reshaping labor markets. Climate action was also a central theme, with participants exploring how climate-focused policies can be integrated into labor strategies to ensure that job creation aligns with the transition to green, blue, and sustainable economies. The theme of social justice and peace further highlighted the need for inclusive labor systems that foster equality, resilience, and prosperity throughout the region.
The Conference exemplifies Inter-American policy dialogue among OAS Member States and provides a platform for collaboration between governments, workers, and employers through ongoing institutional social dialogue. Tomorrow, the conference aims to conclude with the adoption of a joint Declaration and Plan of Action, setting the stage for a transformative regional labor agenda that champions sustainability, inclusion, and innovation as the cornerstones of a prosperous and equitable future for all.
