Agriculture; plantations; other rural sectors

Globally, about one billion people work in the agricultural sector, constituting approximately 28 per cent of the employed population. About 450 million are waged workers, many of whom depend on incomes from jobs in the plantation sector. While the share of employment in agriculture has declined in many countries due to technological advancements and economic shifts, it remains a critical sector for livelihoods, food security, and rural development.

However, agriculture workers regularly face high levels of working poverty, food insecurity, poor health and safety  conditions, an lack of labour and social protection. A socially, environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural sector with full, productive and freely chosen employment and decent work at its core is essential for eradicating poverty, tackling inequalities and ending global hunger. Realizing decent work for all workers in the agri-food sector is, therefore, also key to achieving sustainable development and ensuring that no one is left behind, thereby contributing to social justice.

The Sectoral Policies Department (SECTOR)

• sector@ilo.org