The discussion raised the following key takeaways:
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The multistakeholder approach is the only way to accelerate progress on SDG8 and the 2030 Agenda. The meaningful participation of employers with governments and partners is critical, and strategic engagement between actors should be a goal from the very beginning of policy design. Employer federations in particular help to bridge the gap between public and private sectors and UN entities.
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Examples of public private partnerships with employer federations in Chile, Uganda, Nigeria, and Nepal were raised. Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) drive over 95% of jobs in Chile. In Nigeria, job and employer platforms help to align job seeks and employers. The Nepalese federation raised the challenges of LDC graduation and the unique role of the private sector in providing 86% of jobs. The Federation in Uganda highlighted its engagement in the Voluntary National Review (VNR) process with the Office of the Prime Minister and the RC Office, as well as several impactful partnerships with UNHCR, UN Women, FAO, UNICEF, ILO and UNDP in-country to enhance youth and refugee employment opportunities.
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The private sector is increasingly relied upon to meet the SDGs. The UN Resident Coordinator (RC) System sees a growing demand for private sector engagement with the UN and governments, as well as with UN Country Teams and in developing Cooperation Frameworks. Positive examples of UN and private sector engagement should be showcased and built upon towards upcoming summits and UN meetings. Further, delegations should strive to bring private sector representation and expertise to the fore in multilateral dialogue.
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Enablers for the SDGs include democratic political systems, norms and transparent institutions that deliver for people and foster sustainable development. Alongside this, policies can only be carried out successfully with skilled workforces and strong institutions.
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Call to strengthen global partnerships and private investment in skills development for the use of AI. The more qualified workers are the more productive they will be. Skills building and reskilling on foundational AI skills in the digital age is more imperative than ever due to the rise of technology. The workers of tomorrow are the learners of today.
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There is a need to combine decent job creation and technological transition processes. For instance, pairing infrastructure investment with training and skilling requires more attention.
