The 113th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), convened in Geneva and concluded on June 13th, marked a significant stride in global occupational safety and health with the adoption of the first international standards specifically addressing biological hazards in the workplace. This convention, accompanied by a supporting recommendation, provides a comprehensive framework for member states and employers to prevent and control exposure to biological risks, encompassing viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. The convention mandates national policies and enforcement measures to minimize these risks, requiring employers to conduct risk assessments, implement protective safeguards, and ensure adequate worker training and information dissemination. This landmark achievement reflects a proactive approach towards safeguarding workers from both everyday biological threats and future pandemics, significantly enhancing global preparedness for health crises in occupational settings.
The newly adopted recommendation provides detailed technical guidance for practical implementation of the convention. It covers critical aspects of risk management, including risk assessment methodologies, the establishment of early warning systems, the development of effective emergency response procedures, and comprehensive training programs. Specific attention is given to various routes of exposure, such as airborne transmission, physical contact, and vector-borne infections, providing a holistic approach to identifying and mitigating biological hazards in diverse work environments. This comprehensive guidance equips member states and employers with the necessary tools to translate the convention’s obligations into concrete actions, promoting a culture of prevention and protection.
Beyond biological hazards, the conference addressed other pressing issues shaping the future of work. A key focus was the platform economy, characterized by digital platforms connecting workers with clients or customers. The ILC held its inaugural standard-setting discussion on decent work within this rapidly evolving sector, resulting in a draft framework for a future convention and recommendation targeted for adoption in 2026. This framework addresses crucial concerns surrounding fair pay, social protection, occupational safety within digital platforms, data privacy, and mechanisms for resolving disputes affecting gig and platform workers. This proactive engagement signals the ILO’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy are shared equitably, protecting the rights and well-being of workers in this emerging landscape.
Tackling the pervasive challenge of informal employment, the ILC adopted a resolution urging reforms to improve job quality, expand social protection coverage, and support vulnerable populations transitioning to formal employment. The ILO has been tasked with developing a global roadmap to assist countries in implementing national strategies aligned with these objectives. This underscores a global commitment to addressing the precariousness and vulnerability associated with informal work, promoting a more inclusive and just labor market. By providing concrete guidance and support, the roadmap aims to empower nations to implement effective policies that facilitate the transition to formal employment, ensuring decent work conditions and social protection for all.
The conference also significantly strengthened maritime labor protections by approving seven amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006). These amendments reinforce safeguards against violence and harassment at sea, protect seafarers’ rights to shore leave and repatriation, improve access to healthcare, and ensure fair treatment in cases of detention or maritime incidents. These revisions demonstrate a continued commitment to improving working conditions and protecting the rights of seafarers, recognizing the unique challenges and vulnerabilities associated with this industry. The amendments reflect a proactive approach to addressing evolving needs within the maritime sector, promoting a safer and more equitable environment for seafarers globally.
The 113th ILC concluded with 18 new ratifications of international labor instruments from eight member countries, signaling a renewed global commitment to decent work, social justice, and inclusive labor standards. This positive momentum underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the evolving challenges of the world of work. The conference’s outcomes demonstrate a collective resolve to promote fair labor practices, protect workers’ rights, and ensure a future of work that benefits all. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the ILO continues to play a vital role in shaping a more equitable and just future for workers worldwide.
