Guyana signs third Decent Work Country Programme

On 7 April 2025, the Government of Guyana, alongside the International Labour Organization (ILO) and national social partners, signed the country’s third Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP). This agreement aims to advance job creation, workers’ rights, social protection, and social dialogue, and is aligned with Guyana’s national development goals.

The DWCP outlines three strategic priorities:

• Priority 1: Strong and representative tripartite constituents and effective social dialogue;
• Priority 2: Rights at work and employment and social protection for all; and
• Priority 3: Inclusive labour markets and sustainable enterprise development for decent work.

Aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the programme focuses on creating decent jobs, particularly in emerging sectors such as the green and digital economies. It aims to support the country’s transition toward a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future.

The signing ceremony marked a significant step forward in Guyana’s ongoing commitment to promoting decent work for all. The DWCP will guide national efforts over the next five years to strengthen the labour market and ensure social justice through tripartite collaboration.

Minister of Labour, Hon. Joseph Hamilton, expressed appreciation to the ILO for its continued support: “With their unwavering assistance, we successfully developed and implemented two previous DWCPs, along with other initiatives that have positively impacted industrial relations, occupational safety and health, recruitment and placement services, and technical training opportunities for young people entering the workforce.”

Mr. Lincoln Lewis, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), welcomed the signing, acknowledging the journey leading to this achievement: “The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) is encouraged that while over the years we were confronted with challenges, the ILO continued a constant process of facilitation, today realized in a decent work programme. We look forward to the commitment from all parties for the realization of the respective goals.”

Mr. Carvil Duncan, President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), also underscored the programme’s relevance: “The signing of the DWCP marks a significant and hopeful milestone for our nation's workers. As we navigate these exciting times filled with remarkable economic transformation, we recognize the profound impact this has on the lives of individuals and families throughout Guyana. The DWCP is more than just a programme; it offers a vital foundation for our workers and their loved ones to actively participate in the growth of our nation. Together, we can build a sustainable future that uplifts every Guyanese, ensuring that no one is left behind during this journey of progress.”

Mr. Charles Ogle, Chief Executive Officer of the Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry (CAGI), highlighted the business community’s support for the initiative: “The launch of the third DWCP reinforces our shared commitment to a modern, inclusive, and productive labour market. Employers welcome this tripartite effort to strengthen social dialogue and enterprise development, especially as Guyana positions itself for growth in new sectors like green and digital industries. We remain committed to fostering decent work environments that support innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable economic progress for all.”

The programme was signed by Dr. Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean, who emphasized the importance of the tripartite approach: “This signing represents more than a document—it reflects a shared vision for Guyana’s future. With tripartite commitment and action, we can ensure that economic growth goes hand-in-hand with workers’ rights, expanded opportunities, and social justice.”

The event was witnessed by the Honourable Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Anthony Phillips, Prime Minister of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and His Excellency Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, who was in Guyana for the 13th ILO Meeting of Caribbean Ministers of Labour.

This article was first published on the ILO website.