The International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with Syria’s Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour (MoSAL), the Ministry of Energy and national stakeholders, launched two complementary initiatives this week to support the country’s transition toward a greener, more competitive and inclusive economy, according to a press release. The first initiative convened government, employers and workers on 5 August in Damascus for policy dialogue on protecting jobs and strengthening industrial competitiveness. The second follows a renewable energy investment agreement signed on 6 August between the Government of Syria and a consortium of Saudi and other international private investors. Under this agreement, the ILO will equip 1,000 workers with green skills. The training will prepare them for employment at the new power generation facilities to be developed.
The policy dialogue roundtable gathered industrialists, factory owners and government institutions to address challenges facing the industrial sector, particularly those related to energy. Participants used evidence-based discussions to identify practical policy options to improve energy efficiency, support productive enterprises, preserve jobs and strengthen competitiveness. Energy costs, including electricity and gas prices, were central to the exchange. A key outcome was the commitment to continue working with the Ministry of Energy on immediate measures supporting Syrian industry. The talks also addressed the difficulties faced by manufacturers.
“Industrialists called for pricing that is aligned with international market rates, so that production costs do not undermine the competitiveness of Syrian products,” said Ayman Al-Mawlawi, Chairman of the Damascus Chamber of Industry.
He added that participants discussed strengthening national industry and promoting renewable energy to reduce costs. Suggestions included allowing factories to feed surplus electricity into the grid. The organization and development of industrial zones across Syria were also reviewed. Raghda Zaidan, Deputy Minister of MoSAL, described the workshop as an important opportunity to identify practical solutions.
The newly signed public-private investment agreement includes the construction of three solar power plants with a combined capacity of approximately 760 MW, two of which will incorporate battery energy storage systems. It also provides for the rehabilitation and expansion of electricity generation infrastructure, adding around 2,000 MW of planned generation capacity.
“This agreement marks the beginning of a new phase based on diversifying energy sources,” said Osama Abu Zaid, Syria’s Deputy Minister of Energy for Water and Electricity.
The ILO will train returnees, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and members of host communities in skills for installing, operating and maintaining the planned renewable energy systems. Training will be delivered through the PROSPECTS programme, supported by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the DAR programme, funded by the European Union.
“As Syria advances its economic recovery, the transition to a more sustainable economy presents an opportunity to create jobs, strengthen productivity and build resilience,” said Maha Kattaa, ILO Chief Technical Adviser.
She noted that the ILO is supporting a just transition that combines skills development and partnerships. The engagement of international private investors in large-scale photovoltaic projects is expected to accelerate investment in Syria’s clean energy sector. By helping ensure these investments create decent employment opportunities, including for vulnerable groups, the ILO is contributing to industrial recovery. The initiatives together aim to advance long-term sustainable development and a more resilient economy.