Gilbert F. Houngbo

Gilbert F. Houngbo serves as the 11th Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), making history as the first African to hold this position since October 2022. Born in rural Togo in 1961, he has dedicated over 35 years to improving the lives of vulnerable populations worldwide through his expertise in political affairs, international development, diplomacy, and financial management. His academic foundation includes an advanced business management degree from the University of Lomé and accounting credentials from the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières. His career trajectory spans significant roles in both private and public sectors, beginning at Price Waterhouse Canada (1986-1993) and progressing through positions as Director of Finance at the International Bank of Mali (1994-1996). At UNDP, he served in multiple high-level positions including Chief of Staff and Assistant Secretary-General. His public service reached a pinnacle as Prime Minister of Togo (2008-2012), where he implemented crucial economic reforms. Before assuming his current role, he served as Deputy Director-General at ILO and President of IFAD, where he was re-elected in 2021. Under his ILO leadership, he champions enhanced international cooperation, focusing on universal social protection, decent work, and the Global Coalition for Social Justice, which has gathered over 300 partners including 85 governments and 40 international organizations.