Session Overview
The nexus between trade, investment, and employment is a dynamic and multifaceted relationship. Trade and investment are powerful drivers of economic growth, which in turn can lead to job creation and improved job quality. When countries engage in international trade, they can access larger markets, enhance productivity, and stimulate innovation. Similarly, investment, both domestic and foreign, can provide the capital needed for businesses to expand, adopt new technologies, and increase their competitiveness. However, the impact on employment depends on various factors, including the nature of the trade and investment, the sectors involved, and the policies in place. Effective policies that integrate employment considerations into trade and investment strategies are crucial to ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are broadly shared, leading to more and better jobs for all.
This session aims to explore the critical role of trade and investment in creating more and better jobs, with a particular focus on the ILO’s Mainstreaming Employment into Trade and Investment (METI) project. The METI project, funded by the European Union, has been instrumental in integrating employment considerations into trade and investment policies across the Southern Mediterranean region. By examining the successes and lessons learned from METI, this session will provide valuable insights into how trade and investment can be leveraged to foster inclusive and sustainable employment growth.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will have a deeper understanding of the importance of integrating employment considerations into trade and investment policies. They will gain insights into the successful approaches and best practices from the METI project, which can be applied in their own contexts to promote inclusive and sustainable employment growth. Additionally, the session will foster networking and collaboration among stakeholders, paving the way for future initiatives and partnerships.
Target Audience
The session is designed for a diverse audience, including:
• Policymakers and government officials.
• Representatives from Trade Unions and Employers’ Organizations.
• Academics and researchers interested in the nexus between trade, investment, and employment.
• Development practitioners and technical specialists from national and regional institutions.
Conclusion
This session will provide a comprehensive overview of how trade and investment can be harnessed to create more and better jobs, drawing on the experiences and achievements of the ILO's METI project. By bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, the session will facilitate knowledge sharing, capacity building, and collaboration, ultimately contributing to the goal of inclusive and sustainable employment growth.
