Olga Koulaeva, Director of the Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Niels Scott, UN Resident Coordinator a.i. in Armenia, Ruben Sargsyan, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Gagik Makaryan, President of the Republican Union of Employers of Armenia, Elen Manaseryan, Chairperson of the Confederation of Trade Unions of Armenia attended the event.

In his opening address, Ruben Sargsyan, emphasized the importance of cooperation with the International Labour Organization (ILO), especially considering the ongoing reforms in the country, including development of the National Strategies in the relevant areas. The DWCP contributed to the Labour legislation improvement. In this regard Ruben Sargsyan referred to the recently initiated essential amendment of the Labour Code aimed at bringing the national legislation into compliance with the international labour standards.

Olga Koulaeva informed the participants about the new initiative of the ILO Director-General to create a Global Coalition on Social Justice, and about the upcoming World of Work Summit to be conducted within the framework of International Labour Conference this year.  She pointed out that the Programme implementation coincided with the challenging period in the history of Armenia. Olga Koulaeva spoke highly about the achievements in both strategic and legislative reforms undertaken in such a difficult time.

Niels Scott noted the ILO’s contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNDAF) such as creating an inclusive and shock-responsive social protection system; ensuring equitable economic opportunities and decent work and establishment of effective governance systems and institutions.

Elen Manaseryan and Gagik Makaryan mentioned that the voice of social partners has to be heard and the social dialogue needs to be further improved. The DWCP is an important tool for improving business environment and contributing to social and economic development of the Country.

The results of the review have been presented by Tsoghik Bezhanyan, national consultant.

The suggestions and recommendations made during the discussion will be taken into account for finalizing the results of the review and for further implementation of the Decent Work Country Programme.