The IOE works to ensure that the voice of employers is heard in the relevant international debates on labour and social policy. Such discussions are now occurring in an ever-increasing number of international fora both within and outside the United Nations system. This broadened debate is also increasingly introducing a new set of actors. It is now quite apparent that these “new actors” representing different strands of civil society will be, for the foreseeable future, a fixture on the landscape that we operate in.
 

The numerous issues which are now confronting the IOE and its members has seen it increase its efforts to prepare member federations to face the various debates at both the national and international level through the production of a series of position papers and guidance notes. Efforts to produce position papers and guides are focussed on assisting members with their own national debates and policy making. The Secretariat continues to identify relevant or pending issues for research and policy responses and will continue to strengthen its consultations with members over their development, using the website as a repository and access point for members to the information resources of the Organisation.

As the agenda for employers continues to develop apace, the IOE has centred itself through the development of a strategic framework for the period 2004-2009. This document, complemented by annual work plans, will assist in ensuring that the issues of importance to employers over this period are identified and correctly responded to.