Papua New Guinea's government reestablishes the Minimum Wages Board with ILO's support to review and update minimum wage standards, addressing the increasing cost of living.
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| ILO supports PNG's efforts to address rising cost of living through a comprehensive workshop on minimum wage policy. Image Credit: ILO |
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – September 25, 2024:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has partnered with the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) to address the rising cost of living through a comprehensive workshop on minimum wage policy. This initiative aims to review and update the country's minimum wage standards, which were last revised in 2016.
The workshop, held under the leadership of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Hon. Kessy Sawang, focused on key aspects such as the application of ILO Convention 13, sharing best practices from other countries, and utilizing evidence-based approaches to inform decision-making. The ILO stressed the importance of considering both the needs of workers and economic factors when formulating wage policies.
Minister Sawang emphasized the need for a more structured and evidence-based approach to minimum wage setting in PNG. He noted that the current system, which has remained unchanged for a decade, is inadequate and needs to be updated to better reflect the changing economic landscape and rising cost of living.
The workshop aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to design and implement wage policies that advance decent work, reduce inequality, and foster sustainable growth. The ILO also emphasized the importance of fostering social dialogue and using evidence-based information to inform policymaking decisions.
The ILO's support for PNG is a significant step towards ensuring fair and sustainable wage policies in the country. By working with the government and other stakeholders, the ILO is helping to create a framework that supports both workers and employers, fostering economic growth and social equity.