Access to full employment and decent work

Labour is the most widely available factor of production at the disposal of people throughout the world and the primary means by which they earn a living. It is often the only resource at the disposal of the large majority of poor people, and through their engagement in markets for their labour many are able to meet their basic needs. The importance of women’s access to labour markets was recognized in Millennium Development Goal 3 on gender equality and women’s empowerment, with an increase in women’s share of non-agricultural employment included as an indicator of progress. Recognition of the importance of improvements in the quality of paid work for the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger led to the addition of “full and productive employment and decent work for all, including for women and young people” as a target for Millennium Development Goal 1.

Related Subject(s): Economic and Social Development