focuses on regional workforce development

GUYANA proudly played host to the Thirty-Fourth Special Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) – Labour, held on Tuesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara.

The high-level regional meeting brought together labour officials and stakeholders from across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to discuss critical issues shaping the region’s labour landscape.
Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, along with Chief Labour Officer, Dhaneshwar Deonarine, represented Guyana at the event, reaffirming the country’s commitment to regional collaboration and labour development.

Among the key agenda items discussed were preparations for the 2025 International Labour Conference (ILC), updates on the free movement of labour within CARICOM, ongoing labour market assessments, and engagement on thematic labour market issues vital to the region’s growth and sustainability.
Minister Hamilton noted that Guyana remains dedicated to strengthening labour systems and governance frameworks, both nationally and regionally, to foster a more resilient, inclusive, and adaptable workforce across CARICOM.

“This meeting reflects our collective commitment to improving labour standards, enhancing opportunities for our people, and ensuring that the region’s workforce is prepared to meet emerging challenges,” Minister Hamilton stated.
The COHSOD – Labour meeting serves as an important platform for regional collaboration, allowing CARICOM member states to align policies, share best practices, and develop coordinated responses to labour market challenges.
As Guyana continues to position itself as a leader in regional development, hosting the 34th COHSOD meeting highlights the country’s ongoing efforts to contribute to building a dynamic and future-ready workforce for the Caribbean.