The Executive Bureau of the Council of Labor Ministers and Ministers of Social Affairs in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, in coordination with the Ministry of Labor in the Sultanate of Oman and in cooperation with the International Labor Organization (ILO), organized a workshop dedicated to reviewing the status of policies and plans related to maternity benefits, the progress made in them, and their impact on the labor market in the GCC countries.

This event, held in the Omani capital Muscat on January 22 and 23, 2025, focused on exchanging regional experiences and identifying opportunities to develop transformative care policies designed at the national level in a phased manner.

The Director General of Planning and Labor Policies at the Ministry of Labor in the Sultanate of Oman, Eng. Amal Al-Sabtiya, said, “This workshop highlights our shared commitment to promoting a labor market that supports workers and families. The Sultanate of Oman is proud of its pioneering recent social protection and labor reforms, and we look forward to learning from our partners in the GCC.”

She added, “The updates that the Sultanate is making to the social protection system come in fulfillment of Oman Vision 2040 with the aim of enhancing the labor market environment to be more empowering for women on the one hand, and working to achieve a balance between the parties of production on the other hand.”

For his part, the Director of Labor Affairs Department at the Executive Bureau of the Council of Labor Ministers in the GCC, Khalil Buhzaa, confirmed that: “The Executive Bureau remains committed to working closely with the ILO and member states to promote policies that are in line with international standards and reflect the aspirations of our societies. We appreciate this opportunity to exchange experiences and explore innovative solutions.”

In addition, the Technical Officer for Social Protection at the ILO, Lea Bou Khater, said, “Promoting maternity protection policies in the GCC is crucial to address the persistent gender gap in labor force participation and achieve gender equality in the workplace. This workshop aims to provide practical insights and promote a collective vision for transformative care policies in the region.”