New Social Contract - A Trade Union Perspective for the Caribbean

The conference will focus on the concept of a new social contract, how existing social contracts have failed in providing for the needs of its people and delve deeper on two key aspects of the new social contract: macroeconomic policies for inclusive and decent job rich productivity and economic growth, and essential protections for all workers. These are two of the main drivers that public policies could leverage on to build inclusive, sustainable, resilient and equitable economies that create decent work for all, protecting workers’ rights and living standards in a context of just transitions. They are also areas where trade unions can have a significant impact and address the specific needs of groups in vulnerable situations, ensuring no one is left behind. By focusing on these areas, the conference aims to equip trade unions with the knowledge and tools they need to shape the new social contract and to promote decent work and social justice in the region.

Objectives: 

1. The conference will provide a platform for regional dialogue among trade unions, governments, employers’ representatives and academia on the evolving social contract in the context of changing economic, social and environmental impacts, with a particular focus on macroeconomic policies for inclusive and decent job rich productivity and economic growth; and essential protections for all workers. 
2. It will facilitate exchange of best practices and lessons learned with regards to the role trade unions play in influencing policy making, and to discuss strategies on recent economic and social challenges. 

Develop actionable recommendations for policy and practice to strengthen the role of the tripartite constituents, governments, employers’ and workers’ organisations, in shaping the new social contract.