Saudi vice minister opens Global Labor Market Academy in Riyadh
Riyadh – Saudi Vice Minister of Human Resources and Social Development for Labor Dr. Abdullah Abuthnain inaugurated the second edition of the Global Labor Market Academy in Riyadh, marking a significant step in strengthening international cooperation on labor market policies and workforce development.
The launch reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping global discussions on employment, social protection, and sustainable labor reforms amid rapidly changing economic conditions.
The academy brings together policymakers, experts, and practitioners from around the world to exchange knowledge on global labor trends and innovative policy solutions.
With the addition of 19 new member countries in this edition, the initiative now includes participants from 50 nations, underscoring its expanding international reach and relevance in addressing shared employment challenges.
Designed as a year-long academic and capacity-building program, the Global Labor Market Academy focuses on developing practical skills and policy frameworks that can be adapted across diverse economic contexts.
Participants engage in research-driven discussions, case studies, and collaborative learning aimed at improving labor market resilience and promoting inclusive growth.
The opening sessions of the academy were led by experts from the World Bank, who emphasized the critical role of social and labor policies in addressing global challenges such as unemployment, workforce transitions, and demographic changes.
Special attention was given to youth employment, highlighting the need for policies that equip young people with relevant skills and create pathways to decent work.
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the academy aligns with broader national efforts to modernize its labor market and invest in human capital development.
By facilitating dialogue among international stakeholders, the Kingdom aims to contribute to evidence-based policy making and support reforms that enhance productivity, fairness, and social stability across labor markets worldwide.
The academy also serves as a platform for sharing best practices on labor regulation, social protection systems, and employment strategies that respond to technological change and globalization.
Through structured learning modules and peer-to-peer engagement, participants gain insights into how different countries tackle labor market challenges and adapt policies to local needs.
Looking ahead, the initiative has set an ambitious goal to expand its membership to more than 75 countries by 2028.
This expansion is intended to strengthen global collaboration and position the academy as a leading forum for shaping the future of international labor markets through research, policy innovation, and capacity building.
The event in Riyadh reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and contributing to global policy dialogue.
By hosting the Global Labor Market Academy, the Kingdom reinforces its role as a convener of ideas and a supporter of cooperative approaches to employment and social development challenges.
The inauguration concluded with a reaffirmation of the academy’s mission to support sustainable labor market reforms and empower policymakers with the tools needed to navigate evolving workforce dynamics.
As global employment landscapes continue to change, the academy is expected to play an increasingly important role in guiding policy responses and promoting inclusive economic growth.
