Employers engage in advancing formalization efforts across the Southern Neighbourhood Region

ALGIERS (ILO News) –  Employers from Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) actively engaged in discussions and actions to support economic entities transitioning to the formal economy during the regional closing workshop of the Social Dialogue for Formalization and Employability in the Southern Neighbourhood Region (SOLIFEM) project, a joint EU-ILO initiative promoting formalization through social dialogue in Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. This hybrid event provided a platform for employers’ organizations to showcase their role in awareness raising, capacity-building, and advocacy for formalization.

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In Algeria, the General Confederation of Algerian Enterprises (CGEA) led a dialogue on subcontracting and the formalization of private companies in the construction and public works sector. Through four social dialogue workshops, the CGEA engaged 119 informal economic units, raising awareness about formalization benefits. Additionally, with SOLIFEM’s support, CGEA developed strategic guidelines for the representation and provision of services to informal units, and improved outreach through capacity-building initiatives and an awareness campaign.

In Egypt, the Federation of Egyptian Industries (FEI) used social dialogue and a diagnostic study on the informal economy to reach 320 businesses across key sectors—agriculture, engineering, food, ready-made garments, and transport. Using the ILO’s 'Formalize Your Business' (FYB) Tool, FEI facilitated awareness-raising sessions in Cairo, Alexandria, and Damietta. As a result of these engagements, 102 businesses have successfully transitioned to the formal economy.

© ILO

© ILO

In Lebanon, the Association of Lebanese Industrialists (ALI) expanded its outreach to support formalizing informal economic units by adapting and implementing the ILO’s 'Formalize Your Business' (FYB) Tool. Through the ALI Helpdesk, 100 informal businesses across various governorates and municipalities participate in awareness sessions and training aiming to support their formalization.

In the Occupied Palestinian Territories, the Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (FPCCIA) strengthened its capacity to support formalization efforts: 15 employees from 11 chambers across the West Bank participated in a Training of trainers in the Start and Improve Your Business tool and the process of business registration in OPT. This initiative has bolstered FPCCIA’s ability to guide businesses toward formalization.

Employer organizations across the region continue to drive these efforts, incorporating formalization initiatives into their strategic work plans developed during the closing event. Their engagement will ensure that the impact of these activities continues beyond the project’s conclusion.

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© ILO