The global business faces challenges of multilateralism and artificial intelligence.

Every year in June, the International Labour Conference (ILC) brings together governments, workers and employers from all 187 member states of the International Labour Organization (ILO). This is a unique global platform for discussing labour standards and setting international priorities. The Employers' Group, led by the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), participates in the event to ensure that the voice of business is heard and will be understood.

The President of the BCCI, Tsvetan Simeonov, attended the 113th regular session of the ILC, held in Geneva. He participated in the meeting of the IOE Governing Body, where representatives of employers' organisations from around the world discussed the 2025 work programme, the integration of artificial intelligence in business environments, the B20 SheLeads initiative, financial issues and other topics.

Opening the meeting, IOE President Jacqueline Mugo emphasised the critical role of employers in promoting multilateralism in uncertain times. She pointed out that "globalisation is stalling, multilateralism is under pressure, and development financing is declining just when global challenges require collective solutions". In this context, the responsibility and opportunity fall on business to act decisively, stimulate innovation and defend the systems that underpin economic and social stability.

A key item on the forum's agenda was a high-level panel on artificial intelligence and the future of work. The discussion included senior representatives of employers' organisations from Bahrain, Chile, Mali and Serbia, as well as experts from the International Telecommunication Union and the software giant Microsoft. The focus was on how businesses can use artificial intelligence to improve productivity, generate new opportunities and provide their workforce with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital workplace.

During the meeting, the IOE's strategic work plan for 2025 was adopted, focusing on further developing the organisation's positions, strengthening advocacy efforts and reinforcing personalised support for national employers' organisations. Delegates unanimously approved the IOE's annual report, commending the Secretariat for its strong performance and effective delivery of results over the past year.

Roberto Suárez Santos, IOE Secretary-General, shared the organisation's achievements in attracting new members, and Matthias Thorns, IOE Deputy President and ILC Spokesperson, presented the employers' commitments during the International Labour Conference.