The reformation includes engaging not only national-level tripartite representatives but also representatives from vulnerable groups in our society such as youth, women, non-regular workers, SMEs, and small business owners in social dialogue and dealing with a wide range of economic and social issues that Korean society is struggling with such as creating decent jobs, resolving social polarization, responding digital transformation and occupational safety.
After the reformation, the ESLC contributed to bring remarkable achievements such as reaching as many as about 20 agreements through in-depth discussions and considerations on the issues of various agenda and industry including signing tripartite agreement to deal with crisis caused by the pandemic in a preemptive way, protecting basic labor rights in accordance with international standards, ensuring sustainable working hours and improving wage system, and a stronger social safety net.
Still, the ESLC has a long way to go. Ahead of us, new challenges in the era of great transition including digital transformation, carbon neutrality caused by climate crisis, and super-aged society along with the issues of social polarization are threatening us.
Social dialogue is the solution to respond the challenges that we have faced with and turn the time of crisis into the time of opportunity in the era of great transition. In order to resolve the challenges ahead of us, the ways of social dialogue and cooperation will bring brighter future for us. The driving force to pull the wagon of hope is nothing less than social dialogue.
The ESLC will continue to promote dialogue for the better future with the people through open communication channels on this website. We look forward to your active support and participation.
The Economic, Social and Labor Council (ESLC) was newly born as Korea’s social dialogue body by reforming the former Economic and Social Development Commission since after the inauguration of President Moon Jae-in government.
Moon, Sung-hyun Chairperson Economic, Social, and Labor Council