The 11th BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers Meeting (LEMM) held in Brasília, Brazil, adopted declaration focusing on dual challenges of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Climate Change, with a strong emphasis on social protection, workforce reskilling, and inclusive labor governance. The meeting was held under the theme: “Strengthening Cooperation in the Global South for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.”
Key Highlights of BRICS Declaration
Two Main Themes:
- Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work
- Impacts of Climate Change and a Just Transition
Challenges Acknowledged:
- AI is reshaping labor markets, causing job displacement and inequalities.
- Climate change requires a shift to green jobs and sustainable employment.
Key Commitments by BRICS Nations:
- Promote inclusive AI policies – ensuring innovation does not compromise workers’ rights.
- Advance social dialogue – to ensure fair and inclusive climate transitions.
- Strengthen South-South cooperation – on digital inclusion, labor governance, and green job creation.
Support for Vulnerable Groups:
- Special focus on women, youth, elderly, and persons with disabilities.
- Launch of the BRICS Social Protection Observatory to coordinate policies and exchange best practices.
Digital Transformation & Climate Action:
- Reskilling workers for sectors like renewable energy and high-tech manufacturing.
- Creation of green skills programs and updated occupational safety standards.
- Emphasis on equitable access to digital infrastructure and education.
Key Commitments in the Declaration:
- Promote inclusive AI policies balancing innovation and protection.
- Advance social dialogue for equitable climate transitions.
- Strengthen South-South cooperation on labor governance, digital inclusion, and green jobs.
India’s Role and Initiatives in AI & Climate Change
Advocate a human-centric approach to AI: “Technology for Empowerment, Not Exclusion.”
AI & Skill Development Initiatives: National Strategy for AI, FutureSkills Prime, Namo Drone Didi, and National Career Service (NCS) platform.
Climate Action & Green Jobs:
- Sector Skill Council for Green Jobs (SSCGJ)
- Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)
- India committed to net-zero by 2070 and showcased GHG emission reduction progress.
- Collaborative work with ILO on protecting workers during green transitions.
About BRICS
Formed: 2006 (as BRIC); South Africa joined in 2010
Members (Old & New):
- Original 5: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa
- New Members (2024-25): Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, UAE
Key Stats:
- 41% of global population, 24% of global GDP, 16% of global trade
- Major contributors to global energy: 43.6% of global oil, 36% of natural gas, 78.2% of coal production
- Trade with Brazil (2024): USD 210 billion (35% of its total trade)
- Economic Growth (IMF Projections): Growth ranging from 1.1% to 6.1%
BRICS Pillars:
- Political & Security
- Economic & Financial
- Cultural & People-to-People Exchanges
BRICS Institutions: New Development Bank (NDB)
- Supports public/private projects via loans, equity, guarantees, etc.
- NDB Headquarters: Shanghai, China.