In our interconnected world, the kind of work people do—and the conditions under which they do it—shapes not just their own lives, but the fabric of society itself. True social justice cannot be achieved without ensuring that everyone has access to decent work. This means more than just having a job; it means meaningful employment that empowers workers, respects their rights, and offers a fair shot at prosperity.
Understanding Decent Work:
The concept of “decent work” is grounded in the principles of fairness and opportunity. It’s about jobs that provide fair pay, security, safe conditions, and equality for all, regardless of gender, ability, or background. It also means offering workers the chance to develop their skills and have a voice in decisions that affect their working lives. When people have access to such opportunities, they can support themselves and their families with dignity and respect.
Work and Social Justice: Two Sides of the Same Coin:
At its core, social justice is about building societies where everyone enjoys equal rights and opportunities. Decent work is a crucial part of this vision. When work is fair and inclusive, it helps to break the cycle of poverty, reduce inequality, and give people hope for a better future. For women, young people, and other marginalized groups, decent work is often the key to greater independence and participation in society.
Current Realities and Persistent Gaps:
While the global workforce is vast, millions remain excluded or struggle in insecure, underpaid jobs. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of many workers, upending their livelihoods and widening employment gaps. Even as the world recovers, challenges persist: unemployment persists for millions, wage growth remains slow, and too many people are forced to accept work that fails to meet basic standards.
Gender disparities and youth unemployment are especially stark in many regions. According to global assessments, the journey toward closing these gaps is progressing, albeit at a pace that suggests true equality remains far off. Inflation and economic shocks continue to push more workers into poverty, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protections and opportunities.
Towards an Inclusive Work Future:
Addressing these challenges requires more than isolated efforts. Governments, businesses, and organizations must collaborate to establish policies and environments where decent work is the norm, not the exception. This includes:
- Promoting equal access to quality jobs for all,
- Investing in education and training to prepare workers for the jobs of tomorrow,
- Guaranteeing fair wages and social protections,
- Upholding labor rights and eliminating all forms of exploitation.
A Call to Action:
Building a just society starts in the workplace. When everyone has the opportunity to work with dignity and security, the benefits ripple throughout communities and nations. Decent work is not just an economic goal—it’s a matter of human rights and social progress. By prioritizing fair employment practices and inclusive growth, we pave the way for a more equitable world where no one is left behind.
The pursuit of decent work for all propels us toward a future defined by justice, resilience, and shared prosperity.
Writer:
Dr. Fakhrul Islam Babu
President, The Asian Club Limited
General Secretary, China Bangladesh Friendship Center -CBFC,
Organizer, Hong Kong Association of Naturalized Chinese.