History

The Standing Committee for the Coordination of Social Affairs (hereinafter referred to as “Standing Committee”) is an advisory body on social and labour policies for the Chief Executive. It was set up in 1987, based upon Decree-Law No. 31/87/M of June 1st. The Standing Committee is a consultation, communication and cooperation platform for the Government, employers and employees. It facilitates the communication and understanding among the three parties and harmonizes different perspectives. The Standing Committee has made it easier to reach a consensus when formulating social, economic and labour policies, while balancing the interests of different parties to a certain extent. All in all, it helps establishing a stable and harmonious labour relation, thus promoting economic development and social stability.