International Labour Congress in Madrid: EESC President Röpke’s Bold Call for a crucial role of multilateral institutions in defending a Strong Global Social Model

President Oliver Röpke attended the International Labour Congress in Madrid on Thursday, November 14. Hosted by the Spanish Ministry of Labour and Social Economy, the event brought together key global leaders to discuss social dialogue, workers’ rights, and democracy in the workplace. Spain´s Second Vice-president and Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz opened the congress with a powerful message to stand together for labour rights globally and called for a reduction of working time. European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, spoke about the need for a gradual digital and green transition and the importance of regulating the use of AI at the workplace.

In a session dedicated to strengthening democracy at work, the importance of a Global Social Model was highlighted by President Röpke. The President stressed that meaningful social dialogue is essential, ensuring workers’ voices are reflected in the policies that affect their lives. He also addressed the global context of labour rights, noting that 57% of workers are employed informally and 7% of the global workforce lives in extreme poverty. The worsening Global Rights Index and increasing violations of fundamental social and labour rights were underscored as clear indicators of the urgency to strengthen multilateral organizations like the ILO to promote and protect labour rights worldwide.

Röpke outlined priorities including democracy at work, supporting fair wages and protections for platform workers, and strengthening safety nets for those impacted by automation and market changes.

He also addressed the need for a “human in control” approach to AI in workplaces, reinforcing that workers should have an active role in decisions on technology use to prevent risks like reduced autonomy and increased surveillance.

President Röpke also held bilateral meetings with key figures at the congress, discussing collaborative efforts and shared commitments to advancing workplace democracy and fair labour practices across Europe. He met with Enas Attari, Labour Minister of Palestine to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Palestine and the situation of workers and youth. Furthermore, he exchanged views with Miriam Catarina Roquel, Labour Minister of Guatemala and Nomakhosazana Meth, Labour Minister of South Africa.

The congress underscored a global commitment to adapting labour policies for a fairer, more democratic future of work. The EESC will continue its advocacy for the ILO Global Coalition for Social Justice. A strong social dialogue and fair labour standards remain central to building sustainable workplaces in Europe and beyond.