Arab Labour Conference eyes start-ups to drive entrepreneurship, create jobs

Doha, Qatar - The 52nd Arab Labour Conference is delving into the pivotal role of start-ups in shaping the digital economy, with a particular emphasis on how entrepreneurship and technological advancements can generate new job prospects and necessitate a shift in skills, training, and labor policies throughout the Arab region.

Distinguished Minister of Labour H.E. Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri inaugurated the 52nd assembly of the Arab Labour Conference in Cairo, where representatives from 21 Arab countries and stakeholders from both Arab and international organizations convene.

The agenda is anchored in the report from the Director-General of the Arab Labour Office, outlining the organization's accomplishments and initiatives in 2025, alongside an assortment of reports addressing pressing matters on the conference's table. These encompass the proceedings from the 45th session of the Committee on Trade Union Freedoms, convened in Cairo in April 2026, and the 24th session of the Arab Committee for Women's Labour Affairs, held in Kuwait in December 2025.

The discussions are geared towards bolstering the role of trade unions, enhancing their negotiation abilities and social dialogue skills, which are crucial for adapting to rapidly evolving work environments while safeguarding workers' rights amidst shifting economic and technological landscapes.

Moreover, the conference places significant focus on women's labor force participation and their contribution to national development. This is directly derived from the report on the outcomes of the 24th session of the Arab Committee for Women's Labour Affairs. The discussions revolve around promoting women's engagement in the labor market and amplifying their role in the broader spectrum of labor policy advancements across the Arab world.