Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8)—Decent Work and Economic Growth—calls for inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. Despite global recovery efforts post-COVID, unemployment remains high, particularly among youth and women (ILO, 2023).
In low-income countries, up to 85% of employment is informal, lacking social protection or legal rights (UN, 2022). Digitalisation, automation, and climate-related disruptions are transforming labour markets, often leaving vulnerable groups behind.
Decent work is not just about job quantity, but job quality—fair wages, safe conditions, and growth opportunities. This requires investment in education, labour rights, green industries, and entrepreneurship, especially for women, youth, and marginalised communities.