The International Labour Organization released a policy statement about the status of world’s achieving of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8).
SDG 8 aims to promote sustainable economic growth, full employment, and decent work for all.
Atleast two-thirds of the SDG 8 indicators show insufficient progress, and the international community is as far from reaching the targets as it was in 2015. The ILO Report emphasizes the need for increased multilateral and national action, integrated policies, and whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches to make headway on 12 key indicators. The organization highlights that progress is not happening at the required speed or scale and calls for a circular cumulative process to achieve balanced development.
SDG 8 promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. It encompasses economic, social, and environmental dimensions, emphasizing balanced development. The ILO suggests implementing policies supporting a just transition to environmentally sustainable economies, fostering multilateral and national action, addressing unsustainable debt burdens, and enhancing fiscal space for developing countries. These measures should enable investment in social and labor protection, employment, youth employment, and gender equality.
International political willpower is crucial for advancing SDG 8. It involves integrated policies, whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches, and additional support for social protection, employment, and social justice, particularly in low-income and lower-middle-income countries. SDG 8 is important in maximising the overall pace and pattern of sustainable development, aligning with the objectives of the entire 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It underscores the interconnectedness of sustainable economic growth, employment, and social and environmental well-being.