Abstract
At its 353rd Session from 10 to 20 March 2025, the Governing Body endorsed the programme of global sectoral meetings for the biennium 2026–27. This includes a technical meeting on challenges and opportunities for promoting decent work, productivity and a just transition arising from artificial intelligence (AI) in the manufacturing industry. The aim of the meeting is to adopt conclusions, including recommendations for future action. This report has been prepared by the International Labour Office as a basis for discussions at the meeting. Chapter 1 contains a brief overview of manufacturing’s role in the global economy, examining trends in gross domestic product (GDP), international trade, technology levels, employment and evolving drivers of change. Chapter 2 elaborates on the evolution of AI in the world of work and in manufacturing. Chapter 3 describes the associated challenges and opportunities for decent work in terms of employment and productivity; social protection and conditions of work; fundamental principles and rights at work; and social dialogue.