ILO Agreement 111: What It Is and Why It Matters
The International Labour Organization (ILO) was established in 1919 with the aim of promoting social justice and decent working conditions around the world. One of the key ways in which the ILO achieves this goal is through the adoption of international labour standards, which set out best practices for employers and governments to follow.
One of the most important of these standards is ILO Agreement 111, which deals with discrimination in employment and occupation. This agreement defines discrimination as any distinction, exclusion, or preference made on the basis of race, colour, sex, religion, political opinion, national extraction, or social origin that has the effect of nullifying or impairing equality of opportunity or treatment in employment or occupation.
Why is ILO Agreement 111 so important? There are several reasons. First, discrimination in the workplace can have serious negative consequences for individuals, including lower wages, reduced opportunities for career advancement, and even termination of employment. It can also have wider societal effects, contributing to social inequality and exclusion.
Second, ILO Agreement 111 is particularly important in the context of globalization. As more and more companies operate across borders, it is increasingly important that workers are protected from discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, or other factors. This is especially true in countries with weak legal frameworks or where discrimination is more prevalent.
Finally, ILO Agreement 111 is important because it is a legally binding international treaty. This means that governments and employers are obligated to comply with its provisions and can be held accountable if they fail to do so. It also means that workers have recourse to legal remedies if they experience discrimination in the workplace.
In conclusion, ILO Agreement 111 is a critical international labour standard that aims to promote equality of opportunity and treatment in employment and occupation. While discrimination remains a persistent problem in many parts of the world, the existence of this agreement provides an important framework for governments, employers, and workers to combat this issue and promote decent work for all.