Sri Lanka’s Minister of Labour, Anil Jayantha Fernando, has reiterated the government’s dedication to labour reform and social justice during his address at the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva.

Fernando outlined key national priorities, including occupational safety, gender pay equality, and protections for workers in informal and gig sectors. He also emphasised the country’s plan to shift from a minimum wage framework to a living wage model.

Despite fiscal challenges, Sri Lanka has taken decisive action, such as raising public sector salaries by up to 80% and reforming wage laws for the private sector. Fernando highlighted these efforts as part of a broader strategy for inclusive economic recovery aligned with ILO standards.

Concluding his address, the Minister underscored the need for global solidarity in addressing emerging labour challenges and affirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to advancing decent work and democratic values on the global stage.