Latest activities
Latest activities of SOLIFEM
Algeria
Workshop on the strategic plan of CGEA: Enhancing employer involvement in the governance and development of skills systems
Egypt
A workshop to present the main findings of the guidance note “Leveraging sustainability pathways to accelerate formalization and the role of companies in mitigating informality.”
Lebanon
The SOLIFEM CTA joined the ILO Regional Officer for Arab States (ROAS) team for a meeting with …
O.P.T.
A similar workshop for the FPCCIA with 15 participants was held in February 2022, which aimed to …
Regional news
August 2024
SOLIFEM regional capacity building and experience sharing workshop: Enhancing capacity for social dialogue and formalization
a regional capacity-building workshop on "International experiences and emerging good practices in the region on social dialogue for formalization" from 26 to 29 August, 2024.
The SOLIFEM project, co-funded by the European Union and the International Labour Organization (ILO), held a regional capacity-building workshop on “International experiences and emerging good practices in the region on social dialogue for formalization” from 26 to 29 August, 2024. The workshop was organized in partnership with and held at the International Training Centre of the ILO (ITCILO) in Turin, Italy
The workshop aimed to enhance the capacity of ILO constituents of Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT), Jordan and Morocco to transition from the informal to the formal economy. It focused on strengthening social dialogue for formalization by drawing on international experiences and showcasing emerging regional practices, including those developed through SOLIFEM’s initiatives. It also provided an opportunity for the constituents from the SOLIFEM focus countries to share their experiences with representatives from two other countries in the Southern Neighbourhood region, Jordan and Morocco.
Held over four days, the workshop engaged 23 participants from SOLIFEM partners in addition to Jordan and Morocco. It addressed five main themes: tripartite and bipartite social dialogue and collective bargaining for formalization, workers’ formalization through skills development, workers’ formalization through the extension of social protection coverage, enterprise formalization, and formalization strategies.
Interactive methods such as group work, panel discussions, and case studies facilitated in-depth exchanges among participants, with ITCILO specialists and ILO officials leading the sessions. Participants shared their experiences and strategies for formalization. The workshop highlighted the critical role of social dialogue in addressing informality and promoting formal employment, particularly for youth and women in the region.
The insights gained from the workshop are expected to help identify priorities for the formalization strategies and roadmaps to be developed by the four focus countries and territory in the coming months, in addition to feeding into the phase two of the SOLIFEM project.
Algeria
May 2024
Strategic Plan of CGEA: Enhancing Employer Involvement in the Governance and Development of Skills Systems
During the workshop, group discussions focused on several critical points, including the involvement of CGEA and its members in skill development systems by evaluating current engagement
On 29 May 2024, The ILO regional project (Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood (SOLIFEM) in Algeria, in collaboration with the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises (CGEA), held a workshop on “Strategic Plan of the CGEA: Enhancing Employer Involvement in the Governance and Development of Skills Systems.”
The workshop aimed to achieve three key objectives:
- Analysis and Presentation of CGEA Strategic Plan: Examine and present in detail the strategic plan of CGEA, focusing on the role of governance in skills systems within this strategy.
- Sharing of Experiences and Best Practices: Promote sharing of experiences and best practices on the engagement of employer organizations in the governance and development of skills systems.
- Formulation of Recommendations to Strengthen CGEA Strategic Plan: Identify and discuss strategic approaches to increase the impact of CGEA in the development of skills systems. Use the framework of Recognition of Prior Learning System “Validation of Acquired Skills through Experience” (VCAE) as a case study to explore potential roles CGEA could adopt to enhance the effectiveness and relevance of skills systems.
The workshop gathered over 35 participants, including CGEA members and representatives from other institutions. Mrs. Saida Neghza, President of CGEA, opened the event, with Mr. Farid Hegazy, Senior Specialist for Employer Activities at the Decent Work Team for North Africa in Cairo. Mr. Hegazy delivered a presentation on the role of employers in skill development systems. Furthermore, a detailed presentation of the national VCAE system was given, illustrating a potential framework where CGEA could significantly contribute to its development.
During the workshop, group discussions focused on several critical points, including the involvement of CGEA and its members in skill development systems by evaluating current engagement and identifying areas for improvement. Participants discussed strategies to increase CGEA’s role in skill system development and identified ways CGEA could support the development of the Validation of Acquired Skills through Experience (VCAE) system in Algeria.
The outcomes of these discussions will be compiled into a report, which will be presented to CGEA to provide recommendations to strengthen CGEA’s involvement in the development of skills systems and to enrich its strategic plan on this critical theme.
May 2024
Workshop in Algeria on freedom of association in light of national and international standards
The workshop held from 27 to 29 May 2024. It aimed at strengthening the capacity of the working team of the UGTA Workers in the field of freedom of association, in accordance with national and international standards
In cooperation with the General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), the SOLIFEM Project launched the first training workshop for the members of the Union about freedom of association in the light of national and international standards. The workshop held from 27 to 29 May 2024. It aimed at strengthening the capacity of the working team of the UGTA Workers in the field of freedom of association, in accordance with national and international standards.
Amar Takdjout, Secretary-General of the General Union of Algerian Workers, opened the first day of the workshop, to which 32 Trade Union leaders participated. They will form the core of a working group specialized in the subject of freedom of association.
The workshop addressed several topics such as the introduction to the Labour and the Trade Unions laws, as well as the sources of the Labour law, its hierarchy and the history of development of labour law in Algeria. A comprehensive presentation was also made on international labour standards, in particular the fundamental conventions.
The various workshops held within the framework of the SOLIFEM project in Algeria aim at contributing to the elaboration of a road map for the role of the General Union of Algerian Workers in the movement of workers from the informal to the formal economy, as well as enabling the Union to contribute effectively to the social dialogue on formalization.
This initiative is an important step to strengthen the capacity of the Union’s members and to provide the necessary tools and knowledge to support the rights of workers and trade unions in Algeria. These efforts are part of a broader framework for developing the country’s labour policies, in line with international standards and ensuring workers’ rights in a fair and formal working environment.
December 2023
Technical Workshop Showcasing Results of Informal Economy Studies in Algeria
A workshop to present the results of the diagnosis on the informal economy in Algeria
As part of the activities of the regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability (SOLIFEM),” co-funded by the European Commission, a workshop was organized in Algeria on December 12 and 13, 2023. The workshop was held in partnership with the Center for Research in Applied Economics for Development (CREAD) to present the results of the diagnosis on the informal economy in Algeria. The workshop also provided an opportunity to present the results of a second study on subcontracting and formalization for private companies in the Construction, Public Works, and Hydraulics (BTPH) sector, conducted in collaboration with the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises (CGEA).
The proceedings of this workshop were a platform to present the results and key recommendations of these two studies to various partners of the SOLIFEM project in Algeria. A distinguished gathering of more than 40 representatives from diverse government institutions and esteemed social partners took part in a noteworthy assembly. They actively engaged in reviewing, providing insightful comments, and proposing improvements to the presented results and recommendations.
Our partner, CREAD, responsible for conducting the diagnosis, will leverage all the work from this workshop to strengthen and enhance the final report on the diagnosis of the informal economy in Algeria.
We would like to express our gratitude to all our partners for their excellent involvement in this important workshop.
November 2023
Meeting of the Steering Committee of the SOLIFEM Project in Algeria
The steering committee of the SOLIFEM project in Algeria held its eighth meeting
On November 27, 2023, the steering committee of the SOLIFEM project in Algeria held its eighth meeting. The main purpose of this meeting was to review the initial results of the project’s mid-term evaluation. The members of the steering committee were connected remotely with partners from the countries involved in the project – Egypt, Lebanon, and the Occupied Palestinian Territories – as well as with the consultant responsible for this evaluation.
Following this presentation, the committee continued its discussion by assessing the progress of ongoing activities and validating planned actions for the year 2024.
Among the key topics addressed, two activities were discussed and validated: the first involves developing a roadmap for formalizing the informal economy, based on the results of a prior diagnostic. The second activity relates to launching an awareness campaign on the importance of this formalization.
The meeting also served as an opportunity to introduce the new head of the SOLIFEM project, Ms. Samia Archella, who succeeds Mr. Daniel Cork.
October 2023
Workshop on Measuring Informality in Algeria
An enlightening training workshop on measuring informality.
Over the span of two days, the regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood” (SOLIFEM), co-funded by the European Union, hosted an enlightening training workshop in Algiers on 3 and 4 October 2023. The workshop focused on measuring informality.
The overarching goal of the training was to enhance national capacities for collecting and analyzing data related to the informal labor and the informal sector. This, in turn, would provide a better understanding of the diversity within the informal economy, considering various categories of workers and economic units. Furthermore, it aimed to prepare the tripartite constituents of SOLIFEM project to contribute effectively to the process of recovery and verification of the diagnosis of the informal economy in Algeria.
More than 30 executive officials from various ministries, research centers, and representatives of social partners participated in the workshop. They displayed keen interest and significant engagement during the training sessions. The knowledge and information gained by the participants during the training will assist them in gaining a better understanding of the methodology and the results arising from the diagnosis of the informal economy. This will enable them to provide more enlightened commentary and, as a result, contribute effectively to verifying the accuracy of the diagnosis results.
September 2023
Workshop on the Role of the Private Sector and Employers’ Organizations in Algeria in the Transition to the Formal Economy
SOLIFEM organized a workshop on the role of the private sector and employers' organizations in the transition to the formal economy
The regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood” (SOLIFEM), co-funded by the European Union, held a workshop in Algeria on 25 September 2023. The workshop, organized in partnership with the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises, focused on the role of the private sector and employers’ organizations in the transition to the formal economy.
The workshop was launched in the presence of Ms. Rania Bikhazi, the Director of the country office of Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia, Mr. El Mahfoudh Megateli, Secretary General of the General Confederation of Enterprises of Algeria, Mr. Amar Takdjout, Secretary-General of the General Union of Algerian Workers and Mr. Roberto Suárez Santos, Secretary-General of the International Organization of Employers. The workshop witnessed the support and participation of Mr. Farid Hegazy, ILO Senior Specialist for Employers’ Activities in Cairo.
The workshop’s main goal was to help the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises, representing employers’ organizations, develop and outline a strategy to encourage transitioning informal economic units into the formal economy. It also aimed at identifying capacity-building needs and initial activities for the Confederation.
The workshop was attended by more than 40 members of the federation, who actively contributed to the group discussions to enrich their strategy to contribute to the transition to the formal economy.
May 2023
Social Dialogue Workshop on Formalization and Employment in the Agricultural Sector in Algeria
A workshop to promote social dialogue as a tool for moving towards a formal economy
The ILO regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood” (SOLIFEM), co-funded by the European Union, organized a workshop to promote social dialogue as a tool for moving towards a formal economy to improve employment opportunities in the agricultural and food industries sectors.
The workshop was held in cooperation with the Pro Agro Youth project, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries, on 16 and 17 May 2023. Its aim was to identify obstacles facing the formalization of economic units and workers in the agricultural sector and value chains within the food industry. The workshop showcased opportunities for strengthening the formalization process
The workshop was attended by all three stakeholders in the agricultural sector, with the participation from representatives of the Government, employers’ organizations, and workers’ organizations, as well as the participation of research centers on the agricultural sector and experts of the International Bureau of Labour.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants collaboratively formulated a range of pivotal recommendations. These recommendations are positioned to play a crucial role in driving the transition from the informal to the formal economy within Algeria’s agricultural sector.
September 2021
Project approval
In Algeria, the Government officially endorsed the project through...
In Algeria, the Government officially endorsed the project through a letter in September 2021. Since then, meetings with ILO tripartite constituents, government ministries, and other project partners took place, in order to introduce the SOLIFEM project.
November 22, 2021
Meeting with the Ministry of Labour
The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MOL)...
The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MOL) hosted the SOLIFEM CTA Daniel CORK in a first meeting on November 22, 2021, during which he presented the objectives and expected outcomes of the project.
The MOL Secretary General confirmed the strong support of the project as a natural outcome of the cooperation between the ILO and the Algerian government, built over the course of the past two years.
November 22, 2021
Interactive workshop with CGEA
On November 22, 2021, the SOLIFEM project organized a half-day workshop with...
On November 22, 2021, the SOLIFEM project organized a half-day workshop with the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises (CGEA) to introduce the project and discuss challenges of informality as well as the importance of a national strategy on formalization to be developed through tripartite social dialogue. Regional representatives and members of the CGEA from the North, Central, Eastern and Western regions of Algeria (Algiers, Blida, Bouira, Boumerdes, Sidi Bel Abbès, Constantine, Taref, Batna) took part to the meeting.
The meeting began with welcoming remarks from the CGEA President, followed by a participatory exercise for participants to get to know one another and to enable SOLIFEM to learn more about the group. The first objective of the meeting was to secure the buy-in and interest of the CGEA members in SOLIFEM. The second was to generate recommendations from the participants for the CGEA to present at the first tripartite meeting of the project.
December 13, 2021
Meeting with UGTA
On December 13, 2021, the SOLIFEM team held its first meeting with the...
On December 13, 2021, the SOLIFEM team held its first meeting with the General Union of Algerian Workers’ (UGTA) Focal Point for the ILO and the UGTA Media Relations officer. The ILO Bureau for Workers’ Activities (ACTRAV) joined the meeting remotely from Cairo.
The main objective of the meeting was to prepare the UGTA for the first tripartite meeting scheduled for December 16, 2021. The second objective of the meeting was to discuss opportunities for Algerian workers’ and the UGTA within the context of the project.
December 16, 2021
Establishment of the Project Advisory Committee in Algeria
The successful establishment of the Project Advisory Committee (PAC) on...
The successful establishment of the Project Advisory Committee (PAC) on December 16, 2021, in Algeria was an important achievement.
The meeting was the culmination of efforts over the course of many months and provided important momentum to the project to speed up the implementation process in Algeria. The PAC is composed of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises (CGEA), the General Union of Algerian Workers’ (UGTA), Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Higher Education, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Vocational Training, the Ministry of Tourism, the National Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CNESE), the National Statistics Office (ONS), and CREAD.
February 22, 2022
Project Advisory Committee second meeting
On February 22, 2022, a second meeting of the Project Advisory...
On February 22, 2022, a second meeting of the Project Advisory Committee, hosted by the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, was held to discuss the SOLIFEM project roadmap and the way forward.
The SOLIFEM CTA Daniel CORK joined the meeting remotely from the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT). The Project Advisory Committee agreed to form two subcommittees, related to “skills” and to “formalization”, which will be responsible for the implementation and supervision of the SOLIFEM activities. PAC members, divided into two sub-groups, renewed their commitment to fully contribute to the achievement of the project objectives.
March 29, 2022
Project Advisory Committee third meeting
A third meeting of the Project Advisory Committee took place on...
A third meeting of the Project Advisory Committee took place on March 29, 2022, aiming to review project subcommittees workplans and to set log-frames targets.
Egypt
May 2024
Leveraging Sustainability Pathways: A Guidance Note for accelerating formalization in Egypt
The workshop presented the main findings of the guidance note “Leveraging sustainability pathways to accelerate formalization and the role of companies in mitigating informality.”
The ILO regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood” (SOLIFEM), co-funded by the European Union (EU), held a workshop on May 27, 2024, in collaboration with the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI). The workshop presented the main findings of the guidance note “Leveraging sustainability pathways to accelerate formalization and the role of companies in mitigating informality.”
The guidance note came out as a result of a series of workshops that the project organized in 2023 to raise awareness among formal sector entities in selected industries. These workshops highlighted the impact of the informality on the economy, productivity, and working conditions, and addressed the challenges of the transition to the formal economy. They emphasized on how businesses can facilitate this transition through legal compliance and corporate social responsibility.
The recent workshop aimed to present the guidance note’s findings and enhance private sector involvement in this transition. It included expert presentations and interactive discussions, emphasizing sustainability and economic development.
The guidance note explores how private sector companies can play a pivotal role in the transition to the formal economy by formalizing workers and improving working conditions within their enterprise, as well as transitioning informal economic units and their workers in their supply chains to the formal sector.
Representatives from formal companies, with a focus on human resources managers, administrative managers, and procurement officers, alongside professionals from FEI and ILO experts participated in the workshop. They engaged in discussion on the crucial role of the private sector in driving the transition to the formal economy.
It concluded with the unveiling of the “Recognizing Sustainable Champions for Formalization Practices in Egypt” initiative to inspire companies to incorporate formalization and sustainability in their core operations to foster a more sustainable and formal business environment in Egypt.
April 2024
Formalize Your Business: A training of Trainers (TOT) program paves the way to enterprise and jobs formalization in Egypt
The workshop focused on the promotion of enterprise and job formalization through the ILO training module "Formalize Your Business" (FYB).
In collaboration with the Federation of Egyptian Industries, the ILO regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood (SOLIFEM)”, co-funded by the European Union (EU), held a training of trainers (TOT) workshop from 21 to 24 April in Cairo. The workshop focused on the promotion of enterprise and job formalization through the ILO training module “Formalize Your Business” (FYB).
Following the validation of the training manual in a workshop held at November 2023, the final version was prepared. This comprehensive manual addresses the specific needs and challenges of SMEs in Egypt. The validation process involved feedback from diverse stakeholders, ensuring the manual is practical and relevant.
The FYB training module is part of an integrated strategy to facilitate the transition of informal economic units to the formal economy by enhancing the capacity of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and empowering them to comply with national regulations and transition to the formal economy.
The TOT program’s primary goal was to create a pool of national trainers capable of delivering the FYB training to the informal economic units in Egypt and guiding them through the formalization process.
With the completion of the FYB training of trainers, a national team of 20 enthusiastic trainers is ready to embark on their journey of enabling informal economic units to transition to a formal economy all over Egypt.
November 2023
To support Enterprises and Jobs Formalization… Validation Workshop for Registration and Compliance Procedures of SMEs in Egypt
The workshop aimed to present gathered data on registration and compliance procedures for SMEs in Egypt to create a training manual that guides the formalization of enterprises and jobs in Egypt, adapting the ILO “Formalize Your Business” training tool.
In a significant step towards promoting enterprises formalization and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Egypt, the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI) and the ILO’s SOLIFEM project, co-funded by the European Union (EU), conducted a workshop in Cairo on November 14, 2023, to address SMEs registration procedures in Egypt.
The workshop aimed to present gathered data on registration and compliance procedures for SMEs in Egypt, pinpoint any information gaps, errors, or inconsistencies, and involve pertinent stakeholders for subsequent support. The overarching aim was to rectify these information gaps and create a training manual that guides the formalization of enterprises and jobs in Egypt, adapting the ILO “Formalize Your Business” training tool.
A diverse group of over 50 participants actively engaged in the workshop. This included individuals from entities interviewed in the information collection phase, other national stakeholders, entrepreneurship development experts, and representatives from both formal and informal businesses
During the workshop, a significant highlight was shed on the “Formalize Your Business” tool and how it’s implemented in different countries. The tool is designed to enhance the capabilities of SMEs through Employers Organizations. Divided into two parts, the manual provides a comprehensive overview of the formalization process. The first part delves into generalities surrounding the topic, emphasizing its importance, while the second part outlines specific procedures for registering an economic unit in Egypt and ensuring compliance with national requirements.
Participants gained valuable insights around the effective utilization of the tool, emphasizing its role in guiding enterprises toward Formalization. Top of FormThe workshop was highly interactive; participants were grouped, each focusing on a specific section of the manual. These diverse groups shared their experiences and provided valuable commentary on the gathered information, in addition to a group of representatives from both formal and informal enterprises who brought their unique perspectives, engaged in a meaningful dialogue and offered crucial feedback on the manual.
Through the engagement of various stakeholders, the workshop encouraged dynamic discussions, laying the groundwork for a training manual aimed at guiding SMEs towards formalization. The manual is scheduled for release following verification and the presentation of results to pertinent authorities.
July and August 2023
Trade Union Capacity-Strengthening Program: SOLIFEM opens up new horizons for Workers’ Organizations in Egypt
The program targeted 20 workers’ educators from different sectors including transportation, textiles, food industries, agriculture, small farmers, and fisheries workers.
The SOLIFEM project in Egypt crowned its trade unions’ capacity-building program, with a “Training of Trainers” program for workers’ educators. It aimed to build the capacity of trade unions’ members to support the transition to the formal economy. The program targeted 20 workers’ educators from different sectors including transportation, textiles, food industries, agriculture, small farmers, and fisheries workers.
The training program consisted of two levels. During the basic level, which took place from 30 July to 3 August 2023, participants reviewed the basic information on the ILO approach on the transition from the informal to the formal economy. They also discussed the basic concepts of informal employment, its causes and outcomes, and the role of trade unions in facilitating the transition to the formal economy and in social dialogue. Participants also acquired skills in designing and delivering training sessions.
After completing the basic level, each participant conducted a training session for workers they represent on one of the topics covered. The advanced level, held from 20 to 24 August 2023, delved deeper into refining trainees’ practical skills in preparing session plans, materials, and activities, along with an exploration of trainer and trainee types, with a review of the theoretical part.
Both program levels embraced a participatory approach, using in-depth discussions, brainstorming sessions, case studies, and role-playing, as well as training games to break the ice and engage the trainees in line with the program’s objectives. Participants were able to practice presenting and delivering content during the training.
Upon completing the advanced level, 17 certified trainers, are expected to lead the implementation of the trade union outreach plan to informal workers and to support their transition to formal jobs.
June and July 2023
Private Sector’s Role in facilitating the transition to the Formal Economy: A New Guidance Note in the making
Workshops to enhance the awareness among private sector companies regarding the repercussions of informality on the economy, corporate productivity, and working conditions.
In collaboration with the Federation of Egyptian Industries, SOLIFEM organized three rounds of awareness-raising workshops for companies on the role of private sector companies in facilitating the transition to a formal economy in Cairo, Alexandria, and Damietta during June and July 2023.
These workshops aimed to enhance the awareness among private sector companies operating in specific sectors (food industries, engineering industries, and ready-made garments) regarding the repercussions of informality on the economy, corporate productivity, and working conditions. Additionally, the workshops focused on addressing the obstacles associated with the transition to the formal economy and outlined how companies can make valuable contributions through compliance with regulations and the implementation of corporate social responsibility initiatives.
The workshops had more than 70 representatives from more than 50 medium/large companies situated in Greater Cairo, Alexandria, Damietta, and the cities along the Canal.
Through the course of the three workshops, participants engaged in comprehensive discussions covering a range of subjects linked to informality. These included the importance of the transition to a formal economy from the perspectives of governments, employers, and workers. Moreover, the participants examined ILO Recommendation No. 204 on the transition from the informal to the formal economy.
Participants also explored topics like corporate social responsibility, the pivotal role of the private sector in facilitating the transition, potential incentives for employers and companies, and the advantages of social protection.
By the end of each of the three workshops, participants put forth recommendations to enhance the role of private sector enterprises in facilitating the transition to the formal economy. These suggestions included the establishment of comprehensive insurance coverage for both workers and employers, alongside tax and insurance incentives to encourage a seamless transition into formal economic structures. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on preventing the multiplication of official papers for formalization and unifying the requirements; providing factories with a grace period to align conditions, and supporting suppliers in harmonizing their status. Stimulus policies and activities were also proposed to facilitate this journey.
Furthermore, participants underscored the significance of empowering workers by increasing wages in line with minimum wages requirements, fostering awareness of their rights and the advantages of formalization, and highlighting the importance of social insurance. A new guidance note has emerged from three workshops for formal enterprises on the vital role of the private sector in facilitating the transition to the formal economy. Finally, there was a call for sustained social dialogues between employers and workers as a cornerstone for progress on the subject.
June 2023
Training workshop for Trade Unions on Social Dialogue and transition to the Formal Economy
The workshop aimed to strengthen the knowledge of trade unions on the social dialogue and its instrumental role in the transition towards the formal economy.
The ILO project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood (SOLIFEM)”, co-funded by the European Union (EU), organized a training workshop for trade unions in Alexandria on 19 and 20 June 2023, on the pivotal role of social dialogue in facilitating the transition to the formal economy.
The workshop was designed to enhance the capacities and knowledge of select trade unions, emphasizing the significance of social dialogue as an integral component of decent work and the collective bargaining process. The workshop was attended by 20 trade unions leaders and representatives from sectors such as ground transport, fishing, small farmers and agriculture, irrigation, and textile.
As part of SOLIFEM’s comprehensive capacity-building program, the workshop aimed to strengthen the knowledge of trade unions on the social dialogue and its instrumental role in the transition towards the formal economy.
Over the course of two days, participants delved into a range of topics related to social dialogue. These included the ILO’s role in fostering social dialogue, and promoting the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, as well as pertinent national legislation, norms, and mechanisms for social dialogue. The workshop also shed light on the crucial role of social dialogue in promoting the transition to the formal economy, the role of trade unions in social dialogue and collective bargaining, and international best practices in social dialogue, as outlined by ILO Recommendation No. 204.
The workshop adopted an engaging and interactive approach, ensuring participants actively took part in role-playing discussions. They explored the challenges faced by informal employment and learned how to effectively engage in tripartite and bipartite social dialogue. Together, the participants explored strategies to develop participatory solutions for the problems encountered by workers and employers during the transition to the formal economy.
June 2023
Trade Unions training workshop on Formalization and Extension of Social Protection to Informal Workers
Workshop to enhance the knowledge of targeted trade unions regarding the significance of social protection, its connection with Decent Work and Formalization.
The ILO regional project, “Social Dialogue for Regularity and Employability in the Southern Neighborhood” (SOLIFEM), co-funded by the European Union, conducted a workshop in Cairo from 6 to 8 June 2023. The purpose of the workshop was to allow worker representatives to discuss extending social protection to informal workers.
The primary objective of the workshop was to enhance the knowledge of targeted trade unions regarding the significance of social protection, its connection with Decent Work and Formalization. It discussed the relevant international instruments from the ILO including ILO Convention 102, ILO Social Protection Floors Recommendation (202), and ILO Recommendation No. (204) on the transition from the informal to the formal economy, the national legislation related to social protection, and the role of trade unions in expanding social protection for workers in the informal economy.
Over 30 worker representatives from the targeted sectors such as transportation, textiles, agrifood, agriculture, small farmers, and fishing workers participated in the workshop. They engaged in discussions on Social Protection programs and benefits, barriers hindering the extension of social protection to the informal economy, the ILO’s two-track approach, and the role of trade unions in this process.
The workshop offered a valuable platform for the exchange of knowledge and collaboration among workers’ representatives. The participants put forward numerous propositions aimed at expanding social protection for informal workers. They emphasized the necessity of empowering trade unions to actively participate in the formulation of laws and regulations concerning labour matters. Furthermore, they highlighted the significance of media outreach, specifically in raising workers’ awareness about the pivotal role of trade unions in protecting their rights and advocating for their needs. Additionally, they called for launching educational courses at various trade union centers.
The participants emphasized the necessity of establishing a comprehensive database of informal employment across various sectors, which should be compiled through local entities. They placed significant importance on making amendments to the Social Security and Pensions Act No. 148 of 2019, with the specific objective of incorporating marginalized groups. Furthermore, they highlighted the imperative of expanding the social protection framework to encompass all workers, encompassing provisions for adequate pension schemes and comprehensive health insurance. They called for expediting the implementation of a nationwide comprehensive health insurance system to cover the entire country, while also advocating for the provision of benefits to address disabilities, unemployment, old age, and death. Additionally, they suggested that enrollment in social insurance programs should be contingent upon obtaining national identification cards.
With the conclusion of the workshop, the participants initiated the process of developing a joint position paper on the topic of social protection available to informal workers in Egypt. This paper will serve as a comprehensive document outlining their collective views, recommendations, and proposed actions to address the pressing issues faced by informal workers in the country.
March 2023
2 Workshops on Capacity-Building and Knowledge-Sharing on ILO’s methodology for Formalization and the Role of Trade Unions in Facilitating the Transition to the Formal Economy
The primary objective of these workshops was to enhance capacity and exchange knowledge regarding the ILO methodology for formalization
The ILO regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood” (SOLIFEM), co-funded by the European Union, organized two workshops in Cairo from 26 to 30 March 2023. The primary objective of these workshops was to enhance capacity and exchange knowledge regarding the ILO methodology for formalization and the role of trade unions in enabling the transition to a formal economy.
The workshops aimed to raise participants’ awareness on the concept of formalization and highlight the importance of transitioning to a formal economy. Participants were also familiarized with the international framework on the transition from the informal to the formal economy, as outlined in ILO Recommendation 204, issued in 2015. Furthermore, the role of trade unions in facilitating this transition as a means to achieve formalization was emphasized.
Approximately 40 individuals participated in the workshops and engaged in discussions regarding the challenges and opportunities encountered by workers, employers, and the government when transitioning from the informal to the formal economy. Participants delved into topics such as the ILO’s Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, the national context of Egypt’s informal economy, relevant legislation, obstacles to the transition process, the legal framework governing trade union organizations, as well as the components and preparation of an action plan at the union level to shift from the informal to the formal economy.
At the conclusion of the two workshops, participants put forth several recommendations to facilitate the transition from the informal to the formal economy. They emphasized the significance of dialogue between employers and workers to integrate the latter into formal employment. Additionally, they highlighted the need to include informal employment within the national insurance system. The establishment of a standing committee was proposed to streamline the transition process from the informal to the formal economy.
Regarding the role of trade unions in the transition, participants advocated for the expansion of the trade union base to encompass wider areas and larger governorates, thereby forming a more extensive trade union level. They stressed the importance of raising employers’ awareness regarding the benefits and necessity of transitioning to the formal economy. Furthermore, they suggested offering incentives to employers to facilitate this transition. It was also proposed that stakeholders should be invited to engage in negotiations to develop a joint action plan, ensuring a seamless transition to a formal economy without imposing costs on workers.
March 2023
Capacity-Building and Experience-Sharing Workshop on ILO Methodology for Formalization and the Role of Employers in Facilitating the Transition to Formal Economy
Over three days, 20 participants gathered to discuss the ILO approach to formalization aligned with ILO Recommendation No. 204
From 19 to 21 March 2023, the ILO regional project “Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighborhood” (SOLIFEM) co-funded by the European Union, hosted a workshop in Cairo, to strengthen capacity and exchange experiences on the ILO methodology for formalization and the role of employers in facilitating the transition to the formal economy.
Over three days, 20 participants gathered to discuss the ILO approach to formalization aligned with ILO Recommendation No. 204 on the transition from the informal to the formal economy. The discussions focused on various aspects of the informal economy, including the challenges faced by employers, workers, and the national economy as a whole. The workshop explored the international framework outlined in Recommendation 204 for transitioning from the informal to the formal economy. Additionally, participants delved into Egypt’s specific context regarding the informal economy, identified obstacles hindering the transition to the formal economy in Egypt, and examined the formalization methodology proposed by the ILO for informal workers and enterprises.
The workshop also featured a presentation on the ILO’s study on the opportunities and challenges associated with formalizing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Egypt.
Participants examined the role of employers’ organizations in facilitating this transition and put forth several recommendations to achieve it. They highlighted the importance of awareness-raising campaigns targeting workers and organizations to showcase the benefits and opportunities associated with formalization. They also advocated for the streamlining of complex procedures involved in transitioning to the formal economy, aiming to reduce barriers.
Furthermore, participants stressed the significance of incentivizing participation in the formal economy by offering a comprehensive package of benefits. Lastly, participants recognized the need to strengthen institutional capabilities among industrial chambers, with a focus on leveraging digital transformation and fostering networking opportunities to support and guide employers in their formalization efforts.
The workshop concluded with a discussion and advice on designing and implementing project activities with the Federation of Egyptian Industries.
February 2023
Knowledge Exchange Workshop on Informality and Transition to Formal Economy: Egyptian Context and ILO Approach
knowledge exchange workshop for independent national experts on the informal economy in Egypt
The regional ILO project (Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood (SOLIFEM), co-funded by the European Union, organized a one-day knowledge exchange workshop for independent national experts on the informal economy in Egypt, on 15 February2023 to identify the current pressing challenges in the ecosystem including regulations, existing practices, past projects, and capacity building needs.
The workshop also aimed at enabling participants to exchange knowledge and experiences on informality in Egypt, identifying employment and enterprise formalization barriers and challenges, analyze the guidelines provided by the ILO Recommendation 204 on the transition from the informal to the formal economy, propose actions for the project implementation, and form a pool of national experts familiar with the ILO formalization approach as described in the said Recommendation 204.
More than 23 participants, with 19 individuals representing a diverse range of backgrounds and expertise, attended the workshop. These national independent experts brought valuable experience in fields such as enterprise development and formalization, legal affairs, research, capacity building, private sector development, social protection, skills development, and workers’ rights, among others.
After engaging in intensive discussions and sharing their diverse perspectives, the attendees successfully formulated a set of comprehensive recommendations that spanned across three axes; women and youth skills development, policies, and institutional development.
In order to enhance capacity building, with a particular focus on women and youth skills, participants recommended embarking on new partnerships, and building on existing ones with organizations to enrich social dialogue and build the capacity of youth and women. They also proposed the establishment of centers to assess informal labour skills and support their education as per the needs of specific industries or sectors and launching services to provide technical, logistical, and legal support to institutions interested in initiating the formalization process.
Regarding policies, participants recommended creating a digital system or service that can shorten and facilitate the registration process online, offering an incentive package for enterprises to consider formalization, re-examining and evaluating potential solutions and revisions to regulations and laws in order to address uncertainties and loopholes that may impede the formalization of businesses.
In the context of institutional development, various strategies may be implemented to promote formalization. One approach is to explore the role of cooperatives and highlight successful practices, emphasizing how these models contribute to formalization. Additionally, it is crucial to plan activities that enhance the capacity of cooperatives, Furthermore, considering membership-based organizations like trade-unions, cooperatives, and associations as initial steps for both employment and enterprise formalization can be beneficial. Lastly, facilitating enterprise registrations plays a crucial role in streamlining the formalization process for informal economic units.
August - November 2021
Launch of activities in Egypt
After several consultations organised by the SOLIFEM CTA...
After several consultations organised by the SOLIFEM Chief Technical Advisor (CTA) along with the employers’ Specialist in Cairo, and the Programme Officer in the ILO Cairo Office with key governmental and employers’ delegates from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI), during the period from August till November 2021, the Project launched its operation in Egypt with two crucial events.
November 27, 2021
Meeting with Egyptian Trade Unions
Une réunion de consultation sur SOLIFEM entre l'équipe du projet, le Bureau...
A consultation meeting on SOLIFEM between the Project’s team, the ILO Bureau for Workers’ Activities, the ILO Cairo Office and the Egyptian Trade Unions that took place on 27th November 2021. The participants were from the two major trade union federations; the Egyptian Trade Union Federation (ETUF) and its sectoral affiliate representing building and wood workers’, along with the independent trade union federation, the Egyptian Democratic Labour Union (EDLC) affiliated to the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), along with trade unions from the agriculture, fisheries, textile; ground transport, and maritime sectors, given the significant level of informality in these sectors.
In this one-day meeting, the CTA and ACTRAV Specialist encouraged the trade unions to convey their priorities to the project, given the weight advantage that SOLIFEM is still in the development phase in collaboration with the constituents and partners in the focus countries. The unions also pointed out their need for capacity building support on membership development, training on legal terminology relevant to the ILO instruments and labour standards, as well as capacity building on advocacy and negotiation skills.
November 2021
“Just Transition towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies for all” Workshop
Une réunion de consultation sur SOLIFEM entre l'équipe du projet, le Bureau...
A consultative workshop with Egyptian trade unions in addition to leaders from two agricultural cooperatives, who were invited to the meeting to encourage collaboration between the trade union movement and civil society on issues of informality and Just Transition, in collaboration with ILO’s Bureau for Workers’ Activities and SOLIFEM on Green Jobs.
ACTRAV’s Specialist on Just Transitions in Geneva shared the ILO Guidelines on Just Transition; and the opportunities for trade unions to play a role through organizing, collective bargaining; and social dialogue with employers’ and government.
Participants were invited to analyse the causes and consequences of air pollution, Nile River pollution, and global warming in Egypt, and to discuss their advocacy priorities for working with the Egyptian government and employers’ to address the risks of climate change in Egypt.
By the end of the second meeting, all the Egyptian trade unions confirmed their endorsement of SOLIFEM, and of the importance of linking Egypt’s formalization strategy to issues of Just Transition and green jobs.
By the end of the second meeting, all the Egyptian trade unions confirm their endorsement of SOLIFEM, and of the importance of linking Egypt’s formalization strategy to issues of Just Transition and green jobs.
Lebanon
December 2021
Meetings with the ILO tripartite constituents
In December 2021, meetings with the ILO tripartite constituents started...
In December 2021, meetings with the ILO tripartite constituents started taking place to introduce the SOLIFEM project in Lebanon. On that occasion, SOLIFEM team members met with the Ministry of Labour, the General Confederation of Lebanese Workers’ (CGTL), the National Federation of Worker and Employee Trade Unions (FENASOL), the Association for Lebanese Industrialist (ALI) and the European Commission representation in Lebanon.
December 2021
Government Of Lebanon
A meeting was held at the Ministry of Labour. The SOLIFEM team...
A meeting was held at the Ministry of Labour. The SOLIFEM team presented the project in the presence of the Minister, the Director General and other staff. Both parties discussed the situation of informalities of the labour market in the country. The SOLIFEM CTA Daniel Cork presented the objectives and expected outcomes of the project in the context of the current economic crisis, inviting the ministry to outline its priorities, for shaping the project in response to the current environment. The ministry expressed its support for the SOLIFEM project, and for the principle of working through a process of social dialogue.
Click here to learn more about New ILO project works towards formalizing Lebanon’s economy.
December 2021
Employers’ Organizations
A meeting was held with the Association of Lebanese industrialist to...
A meeting was held with the Association of Lebanese industrialist to introduce the project and to consult with employers’ on their priorities in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Industry, the Lebanese League for Women in Business, the Women leaders Association and the Syndicate of the Lebanese Food Industrialists. The project was presented by the SOLIFEM CTA Daniel Cork.
The employers’ encouraged a context-based intervention in Lebanon that would seek to foster and support the private sector, with an initial focus on the agribusiness and food industries. Moreover, ALI saw in SOLIFEM a socio-economic opportunity that would support the formalization process of micro and small businesses, with a focus on youth and women, consequently strengthening the supply chain to develop export potential.
December 2021
Workers’ Organizations
A meeting was held virtually with the trade unions – CGTL and...
A meeting was held virtually with the trade unions – CGTL and FENASOL. During the meeting, the SOLIFEM CTA introduced the project. The trade union federations agreed on the importance of a unified approach and a commitment to work together in the context of SOLIFEM. Both noted the importance of SOLIFEM as a key element of the ILO’s strategy to promote Decent Work, genuine Social Dialogue, and sustainable employment in Lebanon. In terms of barriers to formalization of employment, both unions pointed to the labour code’s lack of recognition of workers’ in agriculture, domestic work, and other sectors and professions as workers’. Finally, trade unions endorsed the goals and expected outcomes of SOLIFEM in terms of formalization and skills development for youth and women. In late February 2022, an online workshop was held with trade unions to identify key sectors for intervention, which were listed as follow: Construction, fishing agriculture, daily workers’ in the private and public administrations (mouyawimiin) and workers’ in the agri-food industry.
December 2021
Meeting with the donor’s representative in Beirut
The SOLIFEM CTA joined the ILO Regional Officer for Arab States (ROAS)...
The SOLIFEM CTA joined the ILO Regional Officer for Arab States (ROAS) team for a meeting with the European Commission (EC) in Lebanon. The SOLIFEM CTA gave an overall briefing on SOLIFEM and its goals and proposed activities. The EC representatives welcomed the project and cautioned the ILO Team to have reasonable expectations in terms of achieving policy changes in the near term in Lebanon, given the focus of the Lebanese Government on the most urgent issues of the economic crisis.
Occupied Palestinian Territories
October 2021
Launch of the project in the occupied territories of palestine
SOLIFEM project launched in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT)...
SOLIFEM project launched in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) through conducting a series of bilateral meetings with each partner to introduce the project.
A tailored presentation for each partner was prepared offering main information about the project, local context about informality, and regional experiences.
October 2021
PGFTU
The first meeting was conducted with the PGFTU with ILO...
The first meeting was conducted with the PGFTU with ILO Jerusalem team attending physically and SOLIFEM CTA, Mr. Dan Cork connected virtually. The meeting was held at the PGFTU premises in Nablus in October 2021 and discussed the opportunities for the trade union movement in OPT under the SOLIFEM project.
A workshop for the PGFTU with 25 participants was conducted during the February 2022 visit aiming to develop the technical understanding of the PGFTU leaders and representatives on informality and ILO instruments, identify opportunities and threats for organizing workers’ in priority sectors, and develop a trade union action plan linked to SOLIFEM.
December 2021
Meeting with the Ministry Of Labour
The last introductory meeting was held in December 2021...
The last introductory meeting was held in December 2021, where the next steps for the project were discussed as well as the main opportunities for the government side.
Following the introductory meeting, a survey was prepared and shared with the constituents to identify potential policies and prioritize sectors that will be addressed under the project. The results of the survey showed consensus on specific elements and sectors for the three partners, with Labour Law reform as a priority for all, expanding social protection came as priority for both workers’ and the government, implementing the new company’s law for the employer’s side. For sectors, ground transport, construction, IT and tourism were mutual between the three parties.
During February 2022, SOLIFEM CTA, Mr. Daniel Cork, visited the OPT in a successful mission. Several meetings and workshops were held with the constituents and other counterparts to discuss the project work plans and the way forward. The National Tripartite Labour Committee held a special meeting to discuss the SOLIFEM project and agreed to form a subcommittee that will be responsible for the implementation and supervision of the SOLIFEM activities.
December 2021 - February 2022
FPCCIA
A meeting with the employers’ followed in October 2021, with...
A meeting with the employers’ followed in October 2021, with the project introduced to the FPCCIA at their premises. The meeting discussed the opportunities for the federation of chambers under the project.
A similar workshop for the FPCCIA with 15 participants was held in February 2022, which aimed to develop the technical understanding of the FPCCIA representatives on informality, and to develop an outreach plan linked to SOLIFEM project.
During the mission, the team held separate meetings with the constituents, and met with other partners including, the Palestinian Fund for Employment, Ministry of National Economy, TVET commission, and also made field visits to the Chambers of Commerce of both Hebron and Bethlehem.
SOLIFEM team also assured keeping the donor informed in all the progress made under the project, the ILO team met with EUREP office in Jerusalem in December 2021 and February 2022 and shared with them the latest reports and updates.
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Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce
Ministry of Labour in Algeria
Union Générale des Travailleurs Algériens
Egyptian Ministry of Manpower
Egyptian Trade Union Federation
Lebanese Ministry of Labour
CGTL – General Confederation of Trade Unions in Lebanon
FENASOL – National Federation of Independent Workers’ and Employees Trade Union in Lebanon
ALI – Association of Lebanese Industrialist
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