ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work

Overview

• Adoption and Amendment: Originally adopted in 1998 and amended in 2022.
• Purpose: Expresses commitment by governments, employers, and workers’ organizations to uphold basic human values essential for social and economic life.

Core Principles Affirmed in the Declaration

1. Freedom of association and recognition of the right to collective bargaining.
2. Elimination of forced or compulsory labour.
3. Abolition of child labour.
4. Elimination of discrimination in employment and occupation.
5. Safe and healthy working environment.

Follow-up to the Declaration

• Objective: Encourages efforts by ILO members to promote the fundamental principles and rights.
• Framework:
  • Based on the Constitution of the ILO and Declaration of Philadelphia.
  • Reaffirmed in the 1998 Declaration.

Follow-up Mechanisms

1. Annual Follow-up on Non-ratified Conventions
   • Adaptations of article 19, paragraph 5(e) of the ILO Constitution.
2. Global Report
   • Provides insights for Conference discussions on member needs and ILO actions/results.
3. Technical Cooperation Projects
   • Focus on addressing needs and strengthening local capacities.

Annual Review under the Follow-up

• Applicability: Targets member states not ratifying fundamental ILO instruments.
• Reporting Process:
  • Members report annually on rights and principles status.
  • Allows identification of measures taken, impediments, and needs for assistance.
• Evaluation:
  • Country Baselines: Prepared based on government and social partner reports to assess practical application of principles.

Additional Resources

• Country Baselines under the 1998 Declaration Annual Review

These notes provide a high-level summary of the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, highlighting its key components, follow-up mechanisms, and review processes. They serve as a quick reference for understanding the commitment of ILO members to uphold fundamental labour rights.