Global Deal conference - A Better Future for Essential Workers

Background note

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of both formal and informal essential workers in supporting economies, businesses and societies, but it has also raised the question of how well the vital role they play is reflected in terms of their pay and working conditions. This paper discusses how social dialogue can help promote fair pay and decent working conditions, grant access to social protection, improve health and safety at the workplace, and end work-related violence and harassment.