Background paper on decent work and economic growth: progress report on Sustainable Development Goal 8 in Africa, submitted by the International Labour Organization

Abstract

Goal 8 of the Sustainable Development Goals seeks to promote “sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”. It reaffirms the mutually inclusive relationship between economic, social and environmental policies, full employment and decent work. Goal 8 is inextricably linked to other Goals in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the underlying labor market challenges and inequalities. With such effects as worsening, the gender gaps in the labor market. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has undone many of the economic and employment gains that the continent had made over the past few years. A huge proportion of the growing youth population in Africa lives in rural areas, where employment and economic opportunities are limited and labor productivity is relatively low. Young women and youth with disabilities are at a greater disadvantage.