The International Labour Organization has released its annual report on "The situation of workers of the occupied Arab territories" that will be presented at the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference in June 2025. In the preface, ILO Director-General, Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, wrote:

"Gaza lies in ruins, with workplaces destroyed. Thousands of workers and employers have lost their lives. The magnitude of the destitution is unprecedented.

The chaos and violence have also reached the West Bank and workers there have also been displaced. Overall, as my report demonstrates, the Palestinian world of work is in tatters. There have been massive job losses, and unemployment is at a historic high. Many workers have given up hope of finding employment. Decent work has become scarce. Yet, there are also strong and encouraging signs of resilience, driven by the collective will of Palestinians to rebuild Gaza and develop the West Bank.[...]

In view of the urgency of restoring employment and workers’ welfare, I also propose an agenda for jobs for Palestine. Decent jobs are essential for recovery. They provide livelihoods and dignity. Palestinians deserve for jobs to be put at the heart of reconstruction planning. Workers must be empowered and their rights protected.

However, without a political solution to the conflict, there cannot be peace and workers cannot prosper. The only sustainable way forward is through a negotiated two-state solution, with Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in peace and security, as called for by successive Security Council and General Assembly resolutions. Lasting peace needs to be built upon social justice. The global community has a collective responsibility to support Palestine so that it can return from the brink."

Access the full report at the following link: 

"The situation of workers of the occupied Arab territories"