International Labour Organisation
International Labour Organisation
Enumerate the achievements of the International Labour Organisation in promoting labour welfare in Asiatic countries during the last twenty years. (12 MARKS) (GS2 – KAS MAINS 2015)
Promoting labor welfare in Asiatic countries over the last two decades has been a significant focus for the International Labour Organization (ILO). Through its conventions, recommendations, technical assistance programs, and advocacy efforts, the ILO has contributed to improving labor standards, social protection, and overall welfare across Asia. Here are some key achievements of the ILO in promoting labor welfare in Asiatic countries during the last twenty years:
- Promotion of Decent Work Agenda: The ILO has championed the Decent Work Agenda, emphasizing productive employment, social protection, rights at work, and social dialogue. This agenda has been instrumental in shaping policies and programs across Asia aimed at improving working conditions and ensuring fair treatment of workers.
- Ratification of Core Conventions: Many Asiatic countries have ratified core ILO conventions on fundamental labor rights, including freedom of association, collective bargaining, elimination of forced labor, and the abolition of child labor. These ratifications demonstrate a commitment to upholding international labor standards.
- Social Protection and Insurance Programs: The ILO has supported the establishment and expansion of social protection systems in several Asiatic countries. This includes programs for unemployment insurance, maternity benefits, old-age pensions, and healthcare coverage, aimed at enhancing the welfare of workers and their families.
- Combatting Child Labor and Forced Labor: Through various initiatives and partnerships, the ILO has worked with Asiatic countries to combat child labor and forced labor. This includes implementing projects to withdraw children from hazardous work, providing them with education and skills training opportunities.
- Promotion of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment: The ILO has advocated for gender equality in the workplace and supported initiatives to empower women economically. This includes promoting equal pay for equal work, addressing workplace discrimination, and enhancing women's access to decent work opportunities.
- Capacity Building and Technical Assistance: The ILO has provided technical assistance and capacity-building support to Asiatic countries to strengthen their labor market institutions. This includes improving labor administration, enhancing occupational safety and health standards, and promoting sustainable enterprises.
- Green Jobs and Sustainable Development: Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, the ILO has promoted the concept of green jobs across Asia. This involves creating employment opportunities in sectors that contribute to environmental sustainability, such as renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly industries.
- Promotion of Fair Migration Practices: With migration being a significant phenomenon in Asia, the ILO has advocated for fair migration practices and the protection of migrant workers' rights. This includes ensuring decent working conditions, fair recruitment practices, and access to social protection for migrant workers.
- Tripartite Social Dialogue: The ILO has facilitated tripartite social dialogue among governments, employers, and workers' organizations in Asiatic countries. This dialogue promotes consensus-building on labor policies, fosters cooperation, and strengthens democratic industrial relations.
- Response to Crises and Emergencies: During crises such as natural disasters or economic downturns, the ILO has responded swiftly to support affected Asiatic countries. This includes providing emergency employment programs, livelihood support, and social protection measures to mitigate the impact on vulnerable workers.
In conclusion, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has made significant strides in promoting labor welfare across Asiatic countries over the last twenty years. Through its advocacy, technical assistance, and partnerships, the ILO has contributed to improving working conditions, enhancing social protection, and advancing labor rights in the region. However, challenges remain, including informal employment, decent work deficits, and ensuring the full implementation of labor standards. Moving forward, continued collaboration between the ILO, governments, employers, and workers' organizations will be crucial in achieving sustainable and inclusive development across Asia.