This report explores the critical role of peak-level social dialogue (PLSD) in advancing decent work, ensuring a fair labour income distribution, addressing the challenges of the digital and green transitions and repairing the ‘frayed social contract’. PLSD is a set of institutions and processes whereby governments, employers’ and workers’ organisations negotiate, consult each other and exchange information on labour, economic and social matters at national or sectoral level. 

Geopolitical instability, inflationary pressures, political polarisation and the rapid acceleration of technological advances, environmental degradation, climate change and demographic shifts are global issues posing significant challenges, not only to the world of work, but also to the very fabric of society. 

Furthermore, rapid transformations in labour markets, driven by digital and green transitions, are compounding these challenges, exacerbating inequalities and leaving groups in vulnerable situations behind. High income and wage disparities undermine poverty reduction efforts, limit social mobility and increase the risk of social unrest.

The report showcases how PLSD examples and good practices from around the world can serve as a catalyst for navigating complexity, identifying balanced and sustainable solutions, addressing social and economic injustice and promoting democracy in the world of work – and in society at large. 

Prerequisites for PLSD

• Respect for fundamental principles and rights at work.
• A supportive state and an enabling legal and regulatory framework.
• Fostering representative participation.
• An institutional commitment to pluralism.