Cairo: Egypt, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has launched a comprehensive guide aimed at improving compliance with labor standards under the "Better Work Egypt" program. Minister of Labor Hassan Raddad emphasized the importance of social dialogue and adherence to labor standards, viewing them as critical pillars for creating a balanced and stable labor market while enhancing the competitiveness of the Egyptian industry.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the "Better Work Egypt" program represents a practical model of the advantages that can be realized through partnerships among the government, employers, and workers. This initiative not only supports workers' rights and employers' interests but also promotes stability, productivity, and competitiveness within the labor market. The remarks were delivered by Ahmed Nazmi, Head of the Ministry's Central Administration for International Relations, on behalf of Minister Raddad at a tripartite meeting organized by the ILO in Cairo.
The meeting, chaired by Eric Ochlan, Director of the ILO Cairo office, brought together Abdel Moneim El-Gamal, President of the Egyptian Trade Union Federation, Mohamed Abdel Salam, Chairman of the Ready-Made Garments and Home Textiles Chamber at the Federation of Egyptian Industries, and representatives of the three social partners. The session reviewed the objectives of the "Better Work Egypt" program, findings from its 2025 annual compliance report, national efforts, and future plans. The event also marked the launch of a new labor inspection guide focused on compliance with the Labor Law.
Raddad expressed gratitude to the ILO for its ongoing partnership with Egypt, highlighting the technical support and expertise provided to develop the labor system, enhance social dialogue, and strengthen labor market institutions. He underscored the significance of the ready-made garment industry, noting its role as a crucial pillar of the Egyptian economy with substantial employment potential and capacity to attract investment and boost exports.
The minister highlighted that the "Better Work" program not only aims to improve working conditions but also enhances the competitiveness of the Egyptian industry in global markets by raising compliance levels, improving the work environment, and building the capacities of enterprises and workers. He noted a shift in labor standards approaches, moving from inspection-focused methods to broader models centered on awareness, capacity building, and sustainable compliance.
Minister Raddad emphasized the importance of social dialogue in forming sound labor policies, asserting that consultation with all stakeholders leads to balanced decisions that protect workers' rights while supporting enterprises' growth. He stressed the need for harmonizing labor legislation implementation with international standards and strengthening the capacities of labor inspectors, employers, and workers' representatives.
The launch of the labor inspection guide represents a significant step toward standardizing monitoring methodologies, improving inspection tools, and ensuring transparency in labor standards application. Raddad emphasized a proactive inspection approach focused on prevention, correction, and improvement, ultimately enhancing performance and compliance.
Looking forward, Raddad expressed hopes to build on the program's achievements, expand expertise, and strengthen cooperation among the Ministry of Labor, the ILO, and social partners. These efforts aim to support Egyptian enterprises in implementing national and international labor standards, enhance inspection efficiency, promote a culture of occupational safety and health, and improve working conditions across the country.