Aida Awel, the Senior Technical Advisor at the International Labour Organization (ILO) Addis Ababa office, addresses stakeholders during a validation workshop in Juba on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Awel urged employers to adopt fair recruitment practices as part of the new 2026–2030 strategic plan. — Photo Credit: [ILO/Eye Radio]

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has urged South Sudanese employers to prioritize fair and transparent recruitment for both national and migrant workers to protect labor rights and boost the country’s reputation.

Aida Awel, the Senior Technical Advisor at the ILO Addis Ababa office, made the remarks on Tuesday during a stakeholder validation workshop in Juba. The session focused on reviewing and endorsing the Employers Association of South Sudan’s (EASS) Strategic Plan for 2026–2030.

According to the ILO official, the new five-year strategy positions the EASS as a critical partner in job creation, ethical recruitment, and national economic recovery. Awel noted that the plan arrives at a vital moment as South Sudan navigates a path toward stability and private sector development.

“The Strategic Plan 2026–2030 comes at a critical time,” Awel stated. “A strong, forward-looking plan will help position employers’ associations as a key partner in shaping inclusive growth, job creation, and an improved business environment. Strong employers’ organizations are essential for a well-functioning labor market.”

She emphasized that by strengthening governance and institutional capacity, the association would be better equipped to advocate for favorable business conditions and engage in essential social dialogue with the government.

As South Sudan continues to integrate into the East African Community (EAC), the ILO highlighted both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with increased labour mobility. While cross-border movement allows businesses to access a wider pool of skills, it also requires strict adherence to ethical standards.

Awel stressed that recruitment—whether local or international—must remain transparent to mitigate the risks of forced labor and human trafficking.

“By committing to fair recruitment, the employers’ associations and its members are not only protecting workers but also promoting ethical business practices, enhancing their reputation, and reducing the risk of forced labor within their supply chains,” Awel added.

The Strategic Plan is designed to align with South Sudan’s existing labor laws and national labor migration policies. The official noted that the framework emphasizes a “tripartite” collaboration between the government, employers, and workers to ensure sustainable growth.

The workshop is expected to conclude with a formal endorsement delivered on behalf of the Minister of Labor, signaling the official start of the strategy’s implementation phase.