International Labour Organisation

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting social justice and internationally recognised human and labour rights. Established in 1919 by the Treaty of Versailles, it is the only tripartite UN agency, bringing together governments, employers and workers of its 187 member states to set labour standards, develop policies and devise programmes. The organisation's headquarters are in Geneva, Switzerland, with field offices in more than 40 countries. The ILO's mandate includes promoting decent work, improving working conditions, enhancing social protection and strengthening dialogue on work-related issues. It develops international labour standards in the form of conventions and recommendations setting minimum standards of basic labour rights, including freedom of association, the right to organise, collective bargaining, abolition of forced labour, equality of opportunity and treatment, and other standards regulating conditions across the entire spectrum of work-related issues. The organisation conducts research and publishes reports on employment trends, skills development, job creation and the future of work, including studies on the employment impacts of renewable energy and other emerging sectors. The ILO received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969 for its efforts to improve working conditions and promote social justice worldwide. Its work is funded by member state contributions and it collaborates closely with other international organisations, governments, employers' organisations and trade unions to advance its goals.