Muscat – General Federation of Oman Workers launched a two-day symposium on Monday under the theme ‘Towards a More Sustainable Social Dialogue’ in collaboration with Ministry of Labour and Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The event was held under the patronage of H E Saeed bin Hamood al Mawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology.

The symposium brought together more than 20 local and international entities to discuss ways to enhance social dialogue amid evolving labour market challenges.

It also aimed to support Oman’s efforts in economic diversification, financial sustainability, and recent reforms in labour laws and social protection.

Discussions focused on strengthening communication between labour representatives, employers and government officials, identifying challenges facing national committees, and exploring strategies for improving mechanisms for dialogue.

Nabhan bin Ahmed al Batashi, Chairman of General Federation of Oman Workers, highlighted the importance of cons- tructive dialogue in addressing global economic challenges. “Nations that have adopted effective social dialogue policies have been more successful in mitigating economic crises,” he said. He stressed the commitment of all parties to fostering mutual understanding and prioritising public interest. “Social dialogue is a vital tool for achieving shared goals through joint initiatives and programmes designed to overcome challenges.”

Batashi pointed to key achievements made through tripartite consultations, including mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, honouring employment contracts, facilitating the return of over 9,000 workers to their jobs, and implementing major legislative reforms in labour laws and social protection. “These efforts culminated in the issuance of the new labour law, marking a transformative shift in safeguarding workers’ rights,” he said.

He also called for ratification of International Labour Organization conventions on freedom of association, protection of the right to organise, and collective bargaining, while emphasising the need for agreements that strengthen tripartite consultations and ensure the protection of workers’ representatives.