Following the imperative for clean energy, Sustainable Development Goal 8, Decent Work and Economic Growth, aims to promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all. Recognizing that economic prosperity should go hand-in-hand with social progress and environmental sustainability, SDG 8 addresses the need for quality jobs, fair labor practices, and inclusive economic opportunities for everyone.  

The scope of SDG 8 is multifaceted, encompassing various aspects of economic development and employment. Its targets include sustaining per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances and, in particular, at least 7 per cent per annum GDP growth in the least developed countries; achieving full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value; promoting development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, and encourage the formalization and growth of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises, including through access to financial services; improving progressively, through 2030, global resource efficiency in consumption and production and endeavour to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation, in accordance with the 10-year framework of programmes on sustainable consumption and production, with developed countries taking the lead; by 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value; take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labour, end modern slavery and human trafficking and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, including recruitment and use of child soldiers, and by 2025 end child labour in all its forms; protect labour rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers, in particular women migrants, and those in precarious employment; and by 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.  

Decent work involves opportunities for productive work that delivers a fair income, security in the workplace and social protection for families, better prospects for personal development and social integration, freedom for people to express their concerns, organize and participate in the decisions that affect their lives and equal opportunity and treatment for all women and men. Achieving decent work for all is crucial for reducing poverty, promoting social justice, and fostering inclusive economic growth.  

Sustainable economic growth should not come at the expense of environmental degradation or social inequality. SDG 8 emphasizes the need to decouple economic growth from environmental harm through improved resource efficiency and sustainable consumption and production patterns. It also highlights the importance of creating decent jobs that offer fair wages, safe working conditions, and social protection.

Addressing unemployment, particularly among youth, and promoting entrepreneurship and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises are key strategies for achieving SDG 8. Creating an enabling environment for businesses, providing access to finance and training, and fostering innovation are crucial for job creation and economic diversification.

Combating forced labor, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labor is a fundamental aspect of promoting decent work. Strengthening labor laws, enforcing regulations, and providing support to victims are essential steps towards eradicating these abhorrent practices. Protecting the rights of all workers, including migrant workers and those in precarious employment, and ensuring safe and secure working environments are also critical.

In Hyderabad, with its thriving technology and manufacturing sectors, promoting decent work and sustainable economic growth requires attention to job quality, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Supporting the growth of startups and small businesses, investing in skills development and vocational training, and ensuring labor rights are protected are important for achieving SDG 8 in the local context. Promoting sustainable tourism that benefits local communities and respects cultural heritage can also contribute to inclusive economic growth.

Achieving sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all by 2030 is a transformative goal that requires integrated policies and collaborative action. By prioritizing SDG 8, we can build economies that are not only prosperous but also equitable and environmentally sustainable, creating a better future for all. Today, on April 18th, 2025, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering decent work and sustainable economic growth in Hyderabad and around the world, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from economic progress.