The Eastern Cape has become a focal point of global discussions this week, hosting the G20 Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting in Gqeberha under the theme Living and Working in an Unequal World: Ensuring Decent Work and Decent Lives.” As South Africa leads the G20, the meeting highlights the country s commitment to advancing social justice, economic transformation, and labour market reforms that foster inclusivity and resilience in the face of global challenges.

Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane welcomed international delegates and emphasized the province s rich history of struggle and transformation, shaped by global icons such as Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo. He called for international cooperation to ensure the future of work is rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity for all.

A central issue discussed was the urgent need to address youth unemployment, with millions of young people worldwide lacking access to employment, education, or training. Premier Mabuyane highlighted South Africa s national and provincial initiatives aimed at equipping young people with the skills needed for the emerging green and digital economies. He urged stronger policies that prioritize job creation, investments in future-ready skills, and expanded support for youth entrepreneurship, as well as collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society to build an inclusive economy, offering practical solutions for youth employment, gender equality, and sustainable economic growth.

Gender equality in the workforce was also a major focus, with calls for the enforcement of equal pay for equal work, and stronger protections against gender-based violence and workplace harassment. The meeting also explored ways to ensure digital transformation creates opportunities rather than displacing jobs. Premier