Individuals interested in the world of work from around the world are attending a summit in Switzerland aimed at addressing challenges in the global labor market.

The event, which will run until June 17th, has been opened by Juan Somavia, director-general of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), who used his speech to call for a "new era of social justice, of growth with social justice based on sustainable development ".

Attendees at the 100th International Labour Conference will debate a range of issues including the high rates of youth unemployment being seen in many countries and disparities between incomes.

Mr Somavia told around 3,000 delegates at the event in Geneva that in the wake of the economic downturn, "we have in front of us the bigger danger of further consolidating inefficient growth patterns and unfair globalization rules that were at the root of the crisis".

The ILO has announced it has signed a new memorandum of understanding with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development which is intended to increase collaboration between the two agencies in areas of common interest.

Posted by Lee Thrace