International Labour Conference (ILC)

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Recently, Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, led the Indian delegation at the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) held in Geneva, Switzerland.

About the International Labour Conference (ILC)

The International Labour Conference (ILC) is the highest deliberative and decision-making body of the International Labour Organization (ILO). Often referred to as the "World Parliament of Labour," it brings together representatives of governments, employers, and workers from all 187 ILO Member States to formulate global labour standards and discuss key issues related to employment, social justice, and workers’ rights.

The Conference is held annually in Geneva, Switzerland, providing a global platform for framing international labour policies and strengthening cooperation among member countries.

Tripartite Structure – A Unique Feature

The ILC follows the unique tripartite model of the ILO, where each member country sends four delegates consisting of two Government representatives, one Employers’ representative, and one Workers’ representative (2–1–1).

A distinctive feature of this system is that each delegate votes independently, ensuring balanced representation of the interests of governments, employers, and workers, unlike most international organisations where only governments participate in decision-making.

Major Functions of the International Labour Conference

Framing International Labour Standards

The Conference adopts ILO Conventions and Recommendations, which serve as internationally accepted labour standards on issues such as working conditions, occupational safety, wages, social security, forced labour, child labour, gender equality, and freedom of association.

Monitoring Implementation of Labour Standards

The Conference reviews whether member countries are implementing ratified ILO Conventions through its Committee on the Application of Standards, thereby promoting compliance with international labour obligations.

Approving the ILO Budget and Programme

Every two years, the Conference approves the ILO's Programme and Budget and determines the financial contributions of member countries, ensuring the effective functioning of the organisation.

Electing the Governing Body

The Conference elects members of the ILO Governing Body, which acts as the executive council responsible for implementing the organisation’s policies and supervising its work between Conference sessions.

Admission of New Members

The ILC has the authority to admit new Member States that are not members of the United Nations, thereby expanding the global reach of the ILO.

Policy Discussions and Resolutions

The Conference debates the Director-General’s Report and adopts resolutions that guide the future priorities, policies, and activities of the ILO on emerging labour and employment issues.

Importance for India

For India, the International Labour Conference provides an opportunity to present labour reforms, participate in the formulation of global labour standards, strengthen cooperation on employment generation and social security, and align domestic labour policies with international best practices. It also enables India to contribute to discussions on future of work, digital employment, skill development, gig economy regulation, and workers' welfare.