Colombo:The Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) 2026-2032, designed to enhance the labour and employment sector in Sri Lanka, was signed by the Government of Sri Lanka, the International Labour Organization (ILO), along with employers’ organizations and trade unions.

According to News.LK, the signing ceremony was attended by Minister of Labour Anil Jayantha Fernando, Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe, United Nations Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche, and ILO Country Director for Sri Lanka and the Maldives Joni Simpson. Representatives from key stakeholders were also present at the event.

The DWCP provides a framework for cooperation between the Government, employers, workers, and the ILO over the next six years. Its main priorities include promoting productive employment opportunities, protecting workers’ rights, expanding social protection, strengthening effective labour governance, and promoting social dialogue.

Developed through a consultative process with the ILO’s technical support,
the Programme aligns with the Government’s national policy framework ‘A Thriving Nation, A Beautiful Life.’ It aims to create better employment opportunities, enhance labour market institutions, improve access to social protection, and foster a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment.

Minister of Labour Anil Jayantha Fernando highlighted the importance of economic growth and decent work progressing together and emphasized the collective responsibility to create a productive and inclusive working environment.

The Programme will serve as a practical framework for sustainable socio-economic development, reaffirming the commitment of all parties to implement it through social dialogue, consultation, and progress monitoring. Secretary to the Ministry of Labour S. M. Piyatissa and Commissioner General of Labour Nadeeka Wataliyadda, along with representatives from the National Labour Advisory Council, also participated in the event.