On November 25, aligned with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, trade unions globally intensified their appeals for governments to ratify and implement the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190 (C190) and Recommendation 206 (R206). This initiative reflects a concerted effort to combat workplace violence and harassment through fundamental reforms in legislation, policy frameworks, and workplace agreements. The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) highlights that C190, adopted in 2019, represents a groundbreaking international treaty that addresses the imperative of maintaining a workplace devoid of violence and harassment. The ITUC’s statement emphasizes the need for sustained action toward this goal, underscoring the barriers that continue to obstruct progress.
In its recent report, the ITUC referenced findings from the 2024 Global Rights Index, which indicates a disturbing increase in violations of workers’ rights around the world. The General Secretary of ITUC, Luc Triangle, articulated the pressing necessity to confront gender-based violence, which is notably prevalent among women and LGBTQI+ workers. He reiterated that every worker, regardless of their employment status—whether informal, formal, migrant, or national—deserves comprehensive protection from all forms of violence and harassment in the workplace. Triangle’s remarks reflect an overarching commitment to fostering a safe and respectful work environment for all individuals.
During the 16 Days of Activism, Triangle urged a collective effort among governments, trade unions, and employers to build workplaces that not only provide safety but also promote fairness and equality. He advocates for an environment where workers can expect dignity and respect, emphasizing the urgency of the moment. The call for action during this period serves not just as a reminder but as a rallying point for various stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration aimed at enhancing workplace safety standards.
In conjunction with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration approaching in 2025, the ITUC released a report titled “Unions in Action to End Violence and Harassment in the World of Work,” celebrating the fifth anniversary of the C190 adoption. This document details the substantial progress made by trade unions globally, largely influenced by women leaders who champion gender equality and advocate for violence-free work environments. Despite these advancements, the ITUC identifies a critical need for increased investment in violence prevention initiatives and funding directed toward public services, emphasizing that more comprehensive collaboration among different sectors is crucial to surmount the systemic challenges that impede worker safety.
To bolster these efforts, the ITUC, in collaboration with the C190 Arc Task Force, has launched a dedicated website that shares strategies for the ratification and implementation of C190. This platform showcases effective practices from trade unions and women’s rights organizations working towards the establishment of safer, violence-free workplaces. Triangle pointed out that the global campaign underscores the importance of enacting gender-transformative laws designed to prevent violence, provide support for survivors, and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
With numerous countries still delaying ratification of C190, the call to action during the 16 Days of Activism is framed as a pivotal undertaking in the quest for gender equality within the workplace. The appeal resonates as a vital step towards achieving a labor environment that not only protects but also empowers all workers. Triangle’s emphasis on collaboration seeks to instill hope for a future where equitable, safe, and respectful workplaces are not only a goal but a reality for every individual around the globe.
