International Labour Organization (ILO)
Why in News?
The International Labour Organization (ILO) was recently in the news after India abstained from voting on the ILO Convention on Decent Work in the Platform Economy, prompting debate over India's position on global labour standards for gig and platform workers.
Background
- The International Labour Organization (ILO) was established in 1919 under the Treaty of Versailles following the First World War.
- In 1946, it became the first specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) dedicated to promoting labour rights and social justice.
- The ILO promotes decent work, social justice and internationally recognized labour standards.
- It is the only UN agency with a tripartite structure, where governments, employers and workers participate equally in decision-making.
- The headquarters of the ILO is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
- The ILO adopts Conventions (legally binding upon ratification) and Recommendations to improve labour conditions.
- It monitors compliance with international labour standards through supervisory mechanisms.
- The organization works on employment generation, social protection, occupational safety and elimination of child and forced labour.
- The ILO was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969 for advancing social justice.
- The ILO plays a crucial role in protecting workers' rights in both the formal and informal sectors.
- It supports countries in framing labour laws that balance economic growth with social justice.
- The organization contributes directly to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
- Balancing labour protection with the rapid expansion of the digital and gig economy remains a major challenge.
- Many developing countries continue to face difficulties in implementing international labour standards effectively.
- The ILO adopted Convention No. 193 on Decent Work in the Platform Economy, the first international labour convention specifically aimed at protecting gig and platform workers.
- India was among 36 countries that abstained during the voting, although Indian employer and worker representatives reportedly supported the Convention, leading to political criticism within the country.
- India should continue engaging with the ILO while strengthening domestic social security and labour protections for gig and platform workers.
- Future labour reforms should balance innovation in the platform economy with fair wages, social protection and safe working conditions in line with international best practices.
