ILO Report: Inequality and Distrust Hinder Global Social Justice

The International Labour Organization (ILO) released a very important report in 2025 assessing global social justice progress since the 1995 Copenhagen Summit. Despite gains in education, poverty reduction and health, persistent inequalities and declining trust in institutions continue to hamper social justice worldwide. The report was published ahead of the Second World Summit for Social Development held in Doha, marking 30 years of efforts to promote fairness and opportunity for all.

Current State of Social Justice

The world is wealthier, healthier and better educated than three decades ago. Child labour among ages 5 to 14 dropped from 250 million in 1995 to 106 million in 2024. Work-related deaths have fallen by over 10 per cent since 2000. Secondary school completion rates increased by 22 percentage points. Extreme poverty declined from 39 to 10 per cent globally. Working poverty also fell from 28 to 7 per cent. For the first time, over half the global population has social protection coverage.

Persistent Inequalities

Despite progress, deep inequalities remain. Earnings depend 71 per cent on birth circumstances beyond personal control. Over half the global income gap arises from the country of birth. Child labour persists, especially in hazardous conditions. Poverty and hunger reductions have stalled in recent decades. Informal employment remains high at 58 per cent of workers. The gender labour participation gap narrowed only slightly and still stands at 24 per cent. Trust in institutions has steadily declined since 1982, threatening social cohesion and democratic legitimacy.

Four Pillars of Social Justice

The ILO’s vision rests on four foundations – fundamental human rights and capabilities; equal access to opportunities; fair distribution of wealth; and fair transitions in economies and societies. These pillars guide policy aimed at creating environments where all individuals can pursue material well-being and personal growth with dignity and fairness.

Emerging Global Transformations

Environmental, digital and demographic changes are reshaping labour markets rapidly. Climate policies risk harming workers in carbon-heavy industries without just transition plans. Digital advances may widen skill and job access gaps. Ageing populations and youth bulges impose new pressures on social protection and employment systems. Without targeted policies, these shifts could worsen inequality.

Policy Recommendations

The ILO urges governments and institutions to renew commitment to social justice through inclusive policymaking. This includes investing in skills development, social protection, wage-setting and active labour market policies. Embedding social justice principles across finance, industry, climate and health sectors is vital. Enhanced international cooperation is needed to address global challenges coherently and fairly.