Introduction to International Labour Standards

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) is the specialised UN agency that promotes social justice and internationally recognized human and labour rights. The ILO was created out of the need for an independent, international organization to ensure that economic development and globalisation did not progress at the expense of the basic, fundamental human rights.

The ILO formulates international labour standards in the form of Conventions and Recommendations, setting the minimum standards of basic labour rights which include:

• freedom of association;
• the right to organise;
• collective bargaining;
• abolition of forced and child labour;
• equal opportunity and treatment;
• other standards regulating conditions across the entire spectrum of work related issues.

• Freedom of Association
• Right to Organise and Bargain Collectively
• Abolition of Forced Labour
• Elimination of Discrimination in Employment and Occupation
• Abolition of Child Labour.

The Fundamental ILO Conventions

The ILO has 178 member States. Not all member States have ratified the eight core Conventions; Australia, for example, has yet to ratify Conventions 138 and 182 abolishing child labour. Those countries who have not ratified one or more of the Conventions are asked each year to report on the status of the relevant rights and principles within their borders, noting impediments to ratification, and areas where assistance may be required.

The ILO assists member States to achieve the goals outlined in the Conventions by treating workers and employers as equal partners, and supporting the formation of independent employers' and workers' organisations. The ILO works with member States' governments to provide training to these organisations, and to strengthen local capacities, thereby translating principles into practice.
The success of the ILO is dependent on member countries recognising and respecting its authority, despite there being no formal consequences for not doing so. Though member States are bound by the ILO principles, there is no official method of enforcement to guarantee workers' rights are upheld in these countries. Like the UN's Declaration of Human Rights, the ILO relies on individuals, organisations and governments to fulfill their moral obligations in protecting workers' rights.

View the internaional labour declarations and conventions at ILO Standards & Fundamental principles & rights at work.

© Union Aid Abroad - APHEDA 2003.

Last Modified: Sunday, 22-Apr-2007 15:00:09 EST
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