Amman, May 4 (Petra) – The Ministry of Labor on Monday said that the Decent Work Country Program (DWCP) dates back more than two decades, underscoring that it has been implemented through a sustained strategic partnership with the International Labor Organization (ILO) and close coordination with representatives of employers and workers.

In a statement, the ministry said successive governments have continuously updated the Labor Law and its implementing regulations in line with international standards, with the aim of strengthening labor market governance, safeguarding workers’ rights, and ensuring safe and decent working conditions. It added that these legislative reforms have been accompanied by the modernization of labor inspection mechanisms to enhance compliance and enforcement.

The ministry noted that successive phases of the program were implemented during 2006–2009, 2012–2015, and 2018–2022, and continue to date through the efforts of successive ministers, secretaries-general, and technical teams. It explained that the program is based on a tripartite framework that brings together the government, employers, and workers, in partnership with the ILO. This approach, it said, institutionalizes social dialogue, supports the identification of national labor priorities, and ensures policy coherence and sustainability.

According to the ministry, the program provides an integrated framework for advancing labor market reforms, enhancing compliance with international labor standards, expanding social protection coverage, and strengthening mechanisms for social dialogue. It also contributes to empowering youth, women, and persons with disabilities, while improving working conditions across the private sector.

The ministry indicated that the current phase builds on a cumulative institutional approach and was developed following an assessment conducted by the ILO in mid-2022. It added that the Economic Modernization Vision serves as a comprehensive national reference, placing social dimensions at the core of development policies and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth, expanded social protection, and equal opportunities in the labor market.

It said procedures to sign the Memorandum of Understanding with the ILO on the DWCP (2025–2027) began prior to the receipt of any parliamentary inquiries, noting that such agreements require extensive technical preparation.

The ministry added that the current program is structured around key pillars, including inclusive and green growth linked to decent work, strengthened social protection and essential services, enhanced transparency and accountability, reinforced social dialogue, and the promotion of gender equality and non-discrimination. An implementation plan has also been finalized.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a balanced relationship with the Lower House of Parliament, in accordance with the Constitution, highlighting the chamber’s oversight role in monitoring the enforcement of legislation. It stressed its continued implementation of Labor Law provisions and related regulations to ensure the protection of workers’ rights within a balanced framework governing relations with employers.

The ministry also underlined its commitment to implementing decisions and recommendations issued by the Tripartite Committee for Labor Affairs, given its central role in regulating the labor market in line with applicable legislation.

//Petra// AJ