Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), labour wing of Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) urged countries to ensure that artificial intelligence complements workers rather than replaces them, while highlighting India’s social security coverage and protections for gig workers at the International Labour Conference.

Speaking at the 114^th international labour conference in Geneva on Tuesday (June 9), BMS delegate Bojji Surendran claimed India had received international recognition for achieving 64% social security coverage for its workforce, describing it as the highest in the world. He said the award was conferred by the International Social Security Association at the World Social Security Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

“At a time when global unemployment is projected to remain stable at 4.9%, the persistence of global job gaps affecting more than 400 million people serves as a stark reminder that employment alone is not enough,” the transcript of his speech shared by the organisation stated.

He urged that governments and international institutions must focus on decent work that provides fair wages, social protection, occupational safety, and opportunities for skills development.

He also expressed concern over tensions in West Asia, saying conflicts affect labour mobility, overseas employment, remittance flows, supply chains, and the sustainability of small businesses. Trade unions, he added, have a role in promoting dialogue and building confidence during periods of conflict.

Referring to the ILO Director-General’s report on artificial intelligence, Mr. Surendran said new technologies should be designed to assist humans rather than displace them. He welcomed recent efforts by the Union and some State governments to extend social security protections to gig and platform workers, calling them important steps toward inclusion in the digital economy.

Mr. Surendran also criticised the use of the term “labour market”, arguing that labour should be viewed as human capital rather than a commodity. He called on member countries to adopt terminology that reflects dignity and respect for workers.