SAMOA REACHES OUT TO THE ILO GLOBAL LEADERS
By: Nanai Taofiga Laveitiga Tuiletufuga
Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi will be addressing the International Labour Organisation, (ILO) Virtual Global Summit on COVID-19 and the World of Work taking place today.
The Global Summit will provide a high-profile platform for government, employer and worker representatives, and other high-level actors, to address the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The summit will be an opportunity to discuss the challenges and responses of countries and regions that are still battling with the pandemic and of those are starting the recovery process.
A concept note provides further details on the rationale, context and main topics for discussion and invites participants to draw on the ILO Centenary Declaration for the Future of Work in the immediate response to the pandemic and as a framework for building back better in the post-pandemic recovery.
In his pre-recorded address to the Summit, Prime Minister Tuilaepa that although Samoa has been spared from the virus, the pandemic has exacerbated our country’s unique and particular vulnerabilities as we also continue to face the threats of natural disasters.
“As well it not only validates our need for global sustainability, but it also highlights our interconnectedness, hence the need for global solidarity in order to respond effectively,” urged the Prime Minister.
“Innovative responses to global challenges are now coming from emerging development partners and smaller players who have better managed the pandemic and who, in turn, may become strategic partners for other developing countries.
“In the spirit of global solidarity, the ILO could offer an opportunity for its Member States to exchange experiences in preserving access to decent work during crises.”
The Prime Minister also notified the ILO’s Director General that Samoa is also looking forward to the Organisation’s review of her “directives and Occupational Safety Health standards for the work environment in light of the lessons learned during the pandemic.
“Moving forward,” he added that the workplace requirements and the business model of public and private enterprises must consider profound changes to ensure people are not exposed to contamination on the way to work or at due to inadequate environment.”
And he reassured the ILO that Samoa stands ready “to participate in a constructive discussion as to what those changes should be to minimize the risk of pandemics and save lives.”
