LABOUR LAW

UNIT-1 HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ON LABOUR AND LABOUR LEGISLATION

INTRODUCTION
The International Labour Organization (ILO) stands as a cornerstone of global efforts to advance
social justice, promote decent work, and uphold labor rights for workers around the world.
Established in 1919 as a specialized agency of the United Nations, the ILO emerged from the
devastation of World War I with a profound mission: to prevent future conflicts by fostering
equitable and dignified working conditions for all.
At its core, the ILO embodies a commitment to creating a world where labor rights are respected,
where workers are empowered, and where social and economic progress go hand in hand.
Its inception was a response to the pressing need for international cooperation in addressing labor
issues, recognizing that social justice and economic prosperity are intertwined.

HISTORY
The ILO was established in 1919 as part of the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I. Its
creation was prompted by the recognition that social justice and fair labor practices were essential
for ensuring peace and stability in the aftermath of the devastating war.
During World War II, the ILO's activities were temporarily suspended. However, following the war,
the organization played a crucial role in the reconstruction efforts and the establishment of social
security systems in war-torn countries.
In the 1980s and beyond, the ILO shifted its focus to promoting development-oriented policies and
programs aimed at achieving decent work for all.
It launched initiatives to address issues such as poverty alleviation, informal employment, gender
equality, and labor migration, recognizing the interconnectedness of social and economic
development.

OBJECTIVES
The main objectives of the International Labour Organization (ILO) can be summarized as follows:
Promoting Social Justice: The ILO seeks to promote social justice by ensuring that all individuals
have access to decent work, fair wages, and adequate social protection.
It aims to eliminate discrimination, inequality, and social exclusion in the workplace and society at
large.
Promoting Decent Work: The ILO's primary goal is to promote decent work for all, which
encompasses opportunities for productive employment, rights at work, social protection, and social
dialogue.
It strives to create conditions that enable individuals to earn a decent living, work in safe and
healthy environments, and have opportunities for personal and professional development.
Setting and Promoting International Labour Standards: The ILO develops and promotes
international labor standards, including conventions and recommendations, that set out fundamental
principles and rights at work.
Fostering Social Dialogue: The ILO facilitates social dialogue between governments, employers,
and workers to address labor-related issues, negotiate labor policies, and promote cooperation and
understanding among the different stakeholders.
Providing Technical Assistance and Capacity Building: The ILO provides technical assistance and
capacity-building support to member states to strengthen their labor institutions, develop policies
and programs, and improve working conditions and labor rights.
Conducting Research and Policy Development: The ILO conducts research and analysis on labor-
related issues, trends, and challenges and develops policy recommendations to address them.
It generates knowledge and evidence to inform policy decisions and promote evidence-based
interventions aimed at improving working conditions and advancing labor rights.

STRUCTURE
The International Labour Organization (ILO) operates through a structured framework designed to
facilitate its functions and activities. Here's an overview of its organizational structure:
International Labour Conference (ILC): The International Labour Conference is the highest
decision-making body of the ILO. It meets annually in Geneva, Switzerland, and brings together
representatives from governments, employers, and workers from member states.
The ILC sets the ILO's policies and priorities, adopts international labor standards (conventions and
recommendations), and discusses key labor-related issues.
Governing Body: The Governing Body is the executive body of the ILO and is composed of
representatives from governments, employers' organizations, and workers' organizations.
It meets several times a year to oversee the implementation of the decisions of the International
Labour Conference, guide the work of the organization, and make policy recommendations.
The Governing Body is responsible for approving the ILO's budget, appointing the Director-
General, and addressing urgent labor matters between sessions of the International Labour
Conference.
Secretariat: The Secretariat is the administrative arm of the ILO and is headed by the Director-
General, who is appointed by the Governing Body.
It supports the work of the International Labour Conference and the Governing Body, coordinates
the implementation of their decisions, and provides technical support to member states.
The Secretariat is organized into departments, bureaus, and units, each responsible for specific
functions such as policy development, research, technical assistance, and communication.