8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
The focus of the global goal “Decent Work and Economic Growth” is to ensure sustainable and environmentally friendly economic growth that would not involve excessive and unsustainable use of resources. Sustainable economic growth helps people escape poverty and find employment.
The 2030 Agenda sets a target to achieve higher economic productivity, using diversification, technological upgrades and innovation, and focusing among else on sectors that have high value added and are labour-intensive. It is also expected that governments support the creation of decent jobs, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation and encourage establishing micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises, making also financial services more accessible.
Another global target is safe working condition for all workers. Efficient use of natural resources is important while paying attention not to cause environmental degradation. This target relates to the sustainable tourism one, which deserves special attention in the agenda, adding jobs, promoting local culture and products, while taking into account the principles of sustainable tourism.
The Estonian sustainable development strategy emphasises the need to value Estonia as the place to realize one’s potential, live and work.
The global goal “Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all” is linked in Estonia with the following labour and resource productivity and employment indicators:
- Real GDP growth rate
- Resource productivity
- Labour productivity
- Labour force participation
- Long-term unemployment
- Young people neither in employment nor in education and training
- Share of population with a high care burden