The regional trilateral forum entitled The Impact of Social and Economic Developments on Labor Markets in Syria and Neighboring Countries kicked off on Thursday in Damascus.

The event is organized by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, in cooperation with the International Labor Organization (ILO).

At the forum, which brought together international officials and representatives, the urgent need to support Syria's economic recovery and expand access to decent work was emphasized, especially in light of the return of refugees.

Raghda Zaidan, Deputy Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, stressed the importance of monitoring the impact of returning refugees on labor markets in Syria and neighboring countries, while ensuring fair access to employment and social protection.

Ruba Jaradat, ILO Regional Director for Arab States, highlighted the need to link return and reconstruction efforts with formal, sustainable job opportunities.

Marianne Ward, UN Resident Coordinator in Syria, called for investing in human capital and supporting youth through economic policy reform and stronger social safety nets.

Maha Qatta, Senior Regional Technical Advisor, pointed to challenges including unemployment, low female participation, and the expansion of the informal sector. She emphasized that the forums final document will serve as a framework for sustainable regional cooperation.

The forum comes amid major social and economic shifts in Syria and the region, with growing urgency to coordinate labor policies in response to unemployment, refugee return, and informal employment.