ILO DDG Celeste Drake Hosts EPIC Breakfast with Representatives of Geneva-based Permanent Missions
On January 27, 2025, the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC) hosted a Breakfast Meeting at the ILO’s headquarters in Geneva, bringing together over 40 representatives from more than 35 governments. Led by ILO Deputy Director General Celeste Drake, the event provided a platform for members to share experiences while potential new members explored the benefits of EPIC in advancing equal pay for work of equal value.
Celeste Drake highlighted EPIC’s achievements and emphasized the need for collective action to close gender pay gaps. Throughout the discussions, several key interventions underscored the growing commitment to pay equity worldwide. Brazil, EPIC’s new Chair, represented by Ambassador Tovar da Silva Nunes, , reinforced the economic importance of gender equality, highlighting Brazil’s 2023 Gender Pay Parity Law as a major step forward. Canada’s Ms. Patricia Lyn McCullagh, Minister-Counsellor and Deputy Permanent Representative, reflected on peer-to-peer learning and Ukraine’s Equal Pay Roadmap, emphasizing the importance of shared knowledge in advancing equal pay.
Chile’s Ambassador Claudia Fuentes Julio announced plans for a tripartite equal pay seminar, reinforcing the country’s commitment to strengthening pay equity efforts. Ms. Kay Sealy, Deputy Permanent Representative of Barbados, shared that Barbados has begun the process of joining EPIC, outlining several concrete steps the country has taken to achieve pay equity. This announcement marked an important step in expanding EPIC’s reach and influence. Switzerland, EPIC’s first Chair represented by Mr. Samir Yeddes, , emphasized the importance of technical meetings and peer-to-peer learning, which have been central to the coalition’s success in promoting equal pay across different national contexts.
Representatives from the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) stressed the role of social dialogue and employer engagement in driving forward pay equity. An interactive discussion followed, providing attendees with the opportunity to exchange experiences, share best practices, and explore future collaboration.