G20 labor and employment ministers have pledged to prop up the labor market as the COVID-19 pandemic hits jobs and output across the globe.
"We cannot allow COVID-19 to widen inequalities, including gender inequalities, in the labor market and erode progress made thus far," the ministers said Thursday after a virtual meeting hosted by the group's current president Saudi Arabia.
“We will continue, in full global co-operation, to take a human-centered approach to promote employment, bolster social protection, stabilize labor relations, and promote the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work amid the pandemic prevention and control measures, with actions being taken in accordance with our national circumstances,” they said.
"Our countries will continue to explore ways to support businesses and employers, especially micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), to be able to maintain employment and support affected workers through this challenging period."
They added that measures - such as cash transfers, tax credits, grants, loans, and wage subsidies - will be developed in accordance with national circumstances.
These measures are already being introduced in many G20 members and across the world, said the ministers.
“In addition, we will provide guidance and support to employers to enable them to take effective steps to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on their operations, resources, supply chains, and especially their workforces,” they pledged.
