Latest news with #ILO
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Business Standard
a day ago
- Health
- Business Standard
India flags concerns on ILO's biological hazard pact for informal sector
India has cautioned the International Labour Organisation (ILO) that the 'universal' coverage envisaged under the recently adopted convention on protecting workers from the devastating impact of uncontrolled biological hazards in the workplace may be challenging—particularly for the informal sector and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). India also expressed concern about the applicability of the convention beyond the workplace setting. "We understand the importance of labour safety, but it is also important to ensure that the definitions of the proposed instrument are not so broad that they apply beyond the workplace setting. The [Convention's] universal coverage approach may be challenging, particularly for informal sectors and MSMEs," said Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in his address at the International Labour Conference (ILC). Virat Jaiswal, general secretary of the National Front of Indian Trade Unions (NFITU), said the government is concerned that the definitions used in the instrument are too broad, potentially resulting in its application outside the workplace and leading to over-regulation. Last week, during the annual ILC in Geneva, the United Nations body adopted the Biological Hazards in the Working Environment Convention—the first-ever international instrument specifically addressing biological hazards in the workplace at a global level. The convention aims to safeguard workers who may come into contact with microbes, DNA material, bodily fluids, parasites, toxins, allergens and other biological agents during the course of their work. It applies to all workers in all branches of economic activity but requires countries to take specific measures in high-risk sectors and occupations. B Surendran, organising secretary of the Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), said the need for such a convention was reinforced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which killed millions globally, disrupted economies and crippled health systems. 'A lot of people contracted COVID-19 at the workplace. Hence, the convention sets out mechanisms and frameworks to deal with such eventualities. It has always been important to address biological hazards in workplaces, but now it's becoming even more critical,' he added. The ILO's 187 member states—equally represented by governments, employers and trade unions in the ILC—are now required to ratify the convention.
Arab News
2 days ago
- Business
- Arab News
Strengthening Kingdom's global partnerships to shape the future of work
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development recently represented Saudi Arabia at the International Labour Conference in Geneva. In meetings with representatives of governments, employers and workers from around the world, we reaffirmed our belief that international collaboration and the sharing of best practices are critical drivers of sustainable labor market development in the Kingdom. This commitment was strengthened during the conference with the signing of the third phase of technical cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the International Labour Organization. The renewed agreement — signed by Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmad Al-Rajhi and ILO Director General Gilbert Houngbo — reflects our shared ambition to promote decent work and build a more resilient and inclusive labor market, prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. Saudi Arabia has implemented wide-ranging reforms to transform the labor market in line with Vision 2030. This partnership has contributed to significant progress in key areas of the Kingdom's labor market — from occupational safety to skills development — and has supported greater participation across all segments of society, especially among women and young people. This renewed collaboration builds on another important milestone: the signing of a memorandum of understanding last month to enable Saudi nationals to participate in the junior professional officers and secondment programs at the ILO, providing them with opportunities to gain international experience. These initiatives will equip the next generation of Saudi professionals with direct experience in multilateral labor governance, fostering expertise across our institutions. At the core of these efforts is our belief that labor markets must be built on fairness, safety and shared prosperity. Reforms introduced under Vision 2030 have already produced measurable results. Between 2019 and the end of last year, more than 700,000 Saudis entered private sector employment, taking the total to about 2.4 million. Today, the country's overall unemployment is 3.5 percent, with unemployment among Saudi citizens at 7 percent at the end of 2024. The labor force participation rate among Saudi women now exceeds 36 percent, up from 17.7 percent in 2016, while young Saudis are increasingly benefiting from vocational education, digital skills training and tailored employment services. At the same time, Saudi Arabia recognizes the global challenges reshaping the world of work — from technological disruption to shifting demographics — and is preparing its workforce through targeted reforms. More than 4 million people have already benefited from such initiatives. As well as expanding access to the labor market, the country has introduced robust measures to protect all workers, including expatriates. These include improvements to recruitment practices, grievance mechanisms, wage protection and occupational health and safety standards. Furthermore, digital platforms such as Musaned and Qiwa are driving transparency and streamlining key labor processes to promote fair treatment and accountability. Saudi Arabia's alignment with international labor standards is central to this transformation. It has ratified core conventions, including the ILO's Convention No. 95 on the Protection of Wages and the 2014 Protocol to the Forced Labor Convention No. 29, and last year strengthened its commitment to worker well-being by ratifying ILO Convention No. 187 on the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health. The Kingdom recently became the first Arab country to introduce a national policy for the elimination of forced labor, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding rights in the world of work. Our collaboration with the ILO demonstrates what can be achieved when international partnerships are rooted in shared values and leveraged as part of a transformative agenda. Looking ahead, we remain committed to deepening international cooperation, including through emerging regional and global platforms. One example is the Global Labor Market Conference, held annually in Riyadh, with its third edition scheduled for Jan. 29-30, 2026. With the participation of leading policymakers, researchers and international organizations, including the ILO, the conference provides a forum to shape labor policies that are inclusive and globally coordinated. In parallel with these reforms, Saudi Arabia is intensifying efforts to attract highly skilled individuals in critical sectors such as artificial intelligence, entertainment, mining, biotechnology and renewable energy. Initiatives like the premium residency program and specialized visa pathways for professionals support this ambition, helping position the Kingdom as a leading regional and global hub for innovation, creativity and expertise. Our commitment to international collaboration through forums such as the International Labor Conference and Global Labor Market Conference, as well as through bilateral engagement, remains steadfast and continues to support our efforts to build a labor market that benefits all: at home, in the region and beyond. As we shape this future, we welcome continued partnership with governments, employers and international institutions to ensure the world of work is built on fairness, resilience and shared progress. • Dr. Tariq bin Abdulaziz Al-Hamad is deputy minister for international affairs at the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Malaysian Bar: Domestic workers still unprotected under labour laws
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Bar has asked the government to provide full legal recognition and protection to domestic workers under national labour laws. Its president Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab said despite their vital contributions to households and the economy, domestic workers in Malaysia, most of whom are women, continue to face systemic vulnerabilities. "In conjunction with the observance of International Domestic Workers' Day, the Malaysian Bar calls for the full legal recognition and protection of domestic workers under Malaysian labour laws, ensuring that they enjoy equal rights and protections as all other categories of workers. "We also urge stronger enforcement of existing laws and the establishment of effective mechanisms to prevent exploitation and abuse of domestic workers," he said in a statement today. He said domestic workers remain excluded from key protections given to other categories of workers, leaving many unprotected and unable to seek redress when their rights are violated. International Domestic Workers' Day, observed annually on June 16, marks the adoption of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention No. 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers in 2011. He told the government to ratify and implement the ILO convention no. 189 and recommendation no. 201 as a vital step toward safeguarding the rights and dignity of domestic workers. "The government must also enact a dedicated law recognising the unique nature of domestic work. "Standardised contracts and specific regulations can be introduced by the Human Resources Minister without requiring parliamentary approval," he said. He also called for better enforcement of existing laws, improved access to justice, and public awareness campaigns to combat discrimination and affirm the dignity of domestic work. The Bar further proposed allowing foreign domestic workers to change employers or sectors without unnecessary restrictions and regulating part-time arrangements to prevent misuse. "Currently, many domestic workers are sent to multiple households without adequate protection. This must be addressed through clear, enforceable rules," he added. Ezri said the Malaysian Bar remains committed to advocating for the rights of all workers, especially those whose contributions often remain invisible. "Let us work towards a future where all domestic workers are respected, protected, and empowered," he added.
The South African
4 days ago
- General
- The South African
Global child labour: Millions exploited worldwide
Global Child Labour Joint Report of 2025 by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) affirms that almost 138 million children globally are victims of forced labour. Of these, 54 million are doing life-threatening work; some of them are under 12 years old, and they are handling chemicals and using dangerous tools in harsh conditions. Sub-Saharan Africa is the most affected area, with 87 million child labourers, or almost two-thirds of the world's total. Children in war zones are 21% more likely to end up working than kids who live in other places. According to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Target 8.7, UN member states pledged in 2025 to end child labour by 2025. UNICEF reports that 59% of working children do not attend school, and 71% of children in Asia-Pacific experience complete school exclusion. The African Union's plan to eliminate child labour by 2030 provides a roadmap for the entire continent, aligning with Agenda 2063. However, progress is still uneven, and UNICEF is demanding free, high-quality education, stricter enforcement of labour laws, and more investment in education and child protection in rural areas. UNICEF's Regional Child Protection Advisor for East and Southern Africa, Nankali Maksud, highlights both challenges and progress. Children's labour is common in informal agriculture, domestic work, and street vending. Poverty is one of the key drivers, often forcing children to contribute to household income when families can't afford basic needs. South Africa has made commendable efforts through legislation, education, and social grants, all components which lead to the reduction of child labour. However, not only in South Africa but also throughout sub-Saharan Africa, more focused action is required. In its 2024-2025 Global Education Monitoring Report, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) reports that 251 million children globally are still not attending school, a 1% decrease since 2015. Director-General Audrey Azoulay points out that by the time they are ten years old, three out of four children in developing nations are illiterate. She advocates for community-led, inclusive leadership in education, addressing gender disparities and assisting school administrators. According to the report, collaborative models that help keep kids in school and enhance learning outcomes should replace strict hierarchies. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news
Morocco World
4 days ago
- Politics
- Morocco World
Morocco Joins Pan-African Labor Migration Law Initiative in Nairobi
Doha – Morocco is participating in a continental consultation on labor migration legislation in Africa, launched June 16-18 in Nairobi, Kenya. The three-day event was initiated by the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), the legislative arm of the African Union (AU). Hanaa Benkhair, a Moroccan parliamentary advisor and PAP member, is representing the North African country at the meeting, which is organized in partnership with the AU Commission and the International Labour Organization (ILO). In a statement to MAP, Benkhair stressed that Morocco's participation demonstrates the country's commitment to strategic continental initiatives. She noted this engagement reflects Morocco's determination to contribute to building a unified, secure, and prosperous Africa. 'It also shows Morocco's involvement in the continental process aimed at developing effective and equitable governance of labor migration in Africa,' Benkhair stated. The consultation seeks to deepen discussions with African parliamentary, institutional, and civil society stakeholders. Its goal is to develop a unified legislative framework governing labor migration on the continent. Such a framework would ensure respect for migrant workers' fundamental rights while promoting economic and social integration between African countries. The initiative forms part of a legislative process to create a model law on labor migration. The project aims to provide harmonized legal standards for countries across Africa. This would guarantee protection of migrant workers' rights and contribute to better migration governance at national, regional, and continental levels. The Nairobi gathering brings together representatives from parliaments, employer and trade union organizations, as well as experts from the AU and ILO are also participating. Discussions will address legal aspects related to human rights and development linked to labor migration. Participants will exchange experiences and best practices to strengthen legislative frameworks and improve coordination continent-wide. The PAP, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, serves as a consultative assembly of the AU. It was established under Article 5 of the AU Constitutive Act and officially began operations on March 18, 2004. Each member state is represented in the PAP by five parliamentarians from both majority and opposition parties, including at least one woman. These representatives are elected or appointed by their national parliaments or legislative bodies. The PAP's mandate includes ensuring 'the full participation of African peoples in the economic development and integration of the continent.'
