International Labor Organization

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to promoting social justice, decent work, and internationally recognized labour rights through international cooperation.

The ILO's main areas of activity include:

• developing international labour and social policies and programmes;

• establishing international labour standards through the adoption of Conventions and Recommendations, and supervising their application;

• providing technical assistance to member States in improving labour legislation and labour market regulation;

• promoting and protecting fundamental principles and rights at work, including freedom of association, the right to collective bargaining, the elimination of forced labour, the abolition of discrimination in employment and occupation, and the promotion of equal opportunities;

• conducting research and preparing analytical materials on labour and employment issues.

The ILO operates on the principle of tripartism, whereby governments, employers' organizations, and workers' organizations participate on an equal footing in the Organization's decision-making processes.

Since its establishment in 1919, the ILO has adopted 190 Conventions and more than 200 Recommendations covering various aspects of labour and social relations.

The International Labour Conference is the highest policy-making body of the ILO. It is usually held once a year. It considers key issues of international labour policy and adopts international labour standards.

Between sessions of the International Labour Conference, the work of the Organization is directed by the ILO Governing Body. Secretariat functions are carried out by the International Labour Office.

The Republic of Belarus has been a member of the ILO since 1954. In the course of its membership, Belarus has ratified 51 ILO Conventions, including eight fundamental Conventions.

Membership in the ILO enables the Republic of Belarus to draw on international experience in regulating labour and social relations, developing social dialogue among the Government, workers, and employers, and improving labour legislation and employment policies.

Cooperation with the ILO is also intended to facilitate the implementation of international approaches to labour market development, enhance employment policies, and improve the business environment.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Republic of Belarus serves as the national coordinating authority for cooperation with the ILO.

Currently, technical cooperation between the Republic of Belarus and the ILO is suspended.