The 4th BRICS Employment Working Group (EWG) Meeting concludes in Brasília on April 23, following three days of discussions focused on artificial intelligence, digital transformation and just transition in the world of work.

Representatives from the expanded BRICS bloc of 11 nations, international organisations and key stakeholders gathered in the Brazilian capital under the coordination of Maíra Lacerda, head of the International Affairs Advisory Office at the Brazilian Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Brazilian Labour Minister Luiz Marinho opened the in-person stage of the meeting on April 22, beginning with a minute of silence to honour Argentine-born Pope Francis, who passed away a day prior at the age of 88. "The Pope always defended the excluded, with messages of fraternity, solidarity and respect for the poor around the world," Marinho said.

The meeting, part of a series of events in preparation for the bloc's summit in July, continues discussions that began in February, exploring how BRICS countries are addressing challenges and opportunities presented by digital and environmental transitions in labour markets.

Delegates examined AI's growing impact on employment, skills requirements and worker protections, with discussions focused on developing people-centred AI governance frameworks with social partner participation to ensure digital transformation promotes decent work and inclusion.

Marinho highlighted the progress made in concluding the Working Group's chapter on artificial intelligence, reflecting "the collective commitment of our countries to face the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation."

The group also focused on creating equitable pathways towards sustainable economies, with BRICS countries sharing experiences on green job investments and reskilling programmes, as well as strengthened social protection systems to support workers and communities adapting to climate-related economic changes.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) delegation included Moustapha Kamal Gueye, coordinator of the ILO's Green Jobs Programme; Vinicius Pinheiro Carvalho, ILO director in Brazil; and Anita Amorim, head of the ILO's Emerging and Special Associations Unit.

Gueye stressed the importance of ensuring transformations in the world of work are based on principles of social justice, describing a just transition as "not just an aspiration, but a necessity." He emphasised the key role of international cooperation, noting that "BRICS has the opportunity to lead this process."

Marinho reinforced that the transition to a sustainable economy "cannot be seen only as an economic strategy, but as a social necessity," and noted that topics discussed at the meeting will be taken to COP 30, scheduled for November in Belém, Brazil.

The Brazilian minister also addressed the current international scenario, highlighting the need for balance and sovereignty amidst global economic tensions, while reaffirming Brazil's commitment to multilateralism and the promotion of peace.

The BRICS Employment Working Group functions as a space for dialogue and cooperation between the bloc's member countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia and Iran. In 2025, under Brazil's presidency, the work will be guided by the motto "Strengthening Cooperation in the Global South for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance".

Outcomes from the Brasília meeting will inform ongoing BRICS cooperation on developing fair and sustainable work environments supported by South-South and triangular cooperation initiatives.