Amman, Sept. 22 (Petra) -- The care sector plays a vital role in societal stability and national economic sustainability, whether encompassing paid or unpaid care for children, the elderly, or persons with disabilities, General Federation of Jordanian Trade Unions (GFJTU) President Khaled Al-Fanatsah said on Tuesday.

Al-Fanatsah made his remarks during a national workshop organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to validate the findings of a study on the care economy. The study was conducted under the "Masar: Paving the Way Towards Decent Work and Care Economy in Jordan" project.

Building sustainable and comprehensive care systems, alongside providing decent work, social protection, and fair wages for care workers, is essential for improving working conditions, achieving social justice, and bolstering women’s economic participation, Al-Fanatsah said in a statement released by the federation.

He emphasized that the role of trade unions and the GFJTU extends beyond traditional representation to acting as active partners in shaping policies and formulating recommendations tailored to Jordan's economic reality and labor market requirements.

The study examined several key pillars, including childcare, long-term care for the elderly, and support for persons with disabilities. During the workshop, the research team presented the methodology and primary outcomes regarding care needs and provision in Jordan, the composition of the care sector workforce, and related policy issues.

The event was attended by Ministry of Labour Assistant Secretary-General Ibrahim Al-Sakit, ILO Country Coordinator for Jordan Amal Mowafy, alongside representatives from government bodies, international organizations, and employer and worker groups.

//Petra// AF