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In a significant diplomatic step toward economic progress, Somalia’s Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Hon. Yusuf Mohamed, met with Italy’s Ambassador to Somalia, Pier Mario Daccò Coppi, on Tuesday to discuss deepening cooperation in the labour and employment sectors. The high-level meeting, held in Mogadishu, focused on reinforcing worker protections, advancing decent work opportunities, and aligning Somalia’s labour policies with international standards.
The dialogue between Somali and Italian officials comes at a time when Somalia is seeking to rebuild its institutions and economy after decades of instability. Central to this recovery is the labour sector, which plays a vital role in creating inclusive job opportunities, improving social equity, and promoting national development. Tuesday’s meeting underscored a shared commitment to fostering a fair and sustainable labour market that prioritizes vulnerable populations and safeguards the rights of workers.
The Minister and Ambassador Coppi engaged in constructive discussions centered around the implementation and enforcement of labour laws across Somalia. Key priorities included enhancing legal protections for workers, especially those in informal and underserved sectors, and ensuring that labour practices are grounded in fairness, dignity, and safety. They also emphasized the importance of strengthening institutions that monitor workplace conditions and protect employees from exploitation.
The talks were framed within the broader context of the International Labour Organization’s Decent Work Agenda, which advocates for productive employment under conditions of freedom, equity, security, and human dignity. Hon. Yusuf Mohamed expressed Somalia’s dedication to these principles and praised Italy for its ongoing support and partnership in helping Somalia rebuild its labour systems and institutions.
Italy, a long-standing development partner, reaffirmed its commitment to helping Somalia build a more resilient workforce. Ambassador Coppi highlighted the value of joint initiatives that promote capacity building, skill development, and employment generation, particularly among youth and women. Both parties agreed that stronger bilateral cooperation in the labour sector could serve as a catalyst for broader social and economic transformation.
This meeting also fits within Somalia’s larger agenda of aligning its labour and employment policies with global best practices. By doing so, the country aims to create a workforce that is not only competitive but also protected and empowered. Enhancing compliance with labour laws and regulations is seen as critical to attracting foreign investment and encouraging private sector growth.
Moreover, this renewed collaboration could mark the beginning of expanded partnerships between Somalia and European allies to create sustainable development outcomes. Both sides expressed optimism about future technical cooperation, especially in areas such as occupational health and safety, labour inspection, social protection, and vocational training.
The Somali government views this diplomatic engagement as a pivotal milestone in the nation’s development strategy. As the country continues to face economic and social challenges, strong international alliances like the one with Italy offer much-needed support to build the foundations of decent employment and social justice. The joint commitment to improving labour conditions reflects a mutual vision of inclusive growth and a better future for all Somali workers.
This latest development is part of a growing regional and international trend that places worker rights and job quality at the center of policy-making. With sustained support and collaboration, Somalia hopes to turn its labour sector into a driver of prosperity, stability, and peace.