The Minister of Labor and Social Economy of Spain, Yolanda Díaz, has made a strong call to defend the foundational values of the International Labour Organization (ILO) during her speech at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva. Díaz emphasized that the ILO must be a space to build “a global labor civilization,” stressing that, although the organization faces financial challenges, its principles must not be compromised. “If work is not a commodity, neither can the organization that represents it be,” she stated.
The Vice President highlighted the importance of social dialogue, tripartism, and the need for clear standards to guide the ILO’s actions, especially in a context of digital and environmental changes. “An ILO without standards is an ineffectual organization in the face of the major changes we must govern,” she added, urging a collective reflection on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the labor market.
Díaz also highlighted Spain’s commitment to social dialogue, which has allowed significant advances in labor rights, including a reduction in the wage gap and an increase in female employment. At the end of her speech, the minister reaffirmed that the ILO must adapt to current challenges, such as the regulation of digital platforms, emphasizing the need for governance that benefits both workers and employers.
