ILO Multilateral Framework on Labour Migration: Non-binding principles and guidelines for a rights-based approach to labour migration

The Multilateral Framework on Labour Migration represents a considered response to widespread demands for practical guidance and action with a view to maximizing the benefits of labour migration for all parties.

With the expansion and mounting complexity of labour migration, the international community requires new tools to govern it, in addition to the international instruments developed over the last few decades. The ILO with its tripartite structure, its mandate on labour issues, its competence on standard setting, and its long-standing experience in promoting social justice in and through the world of work, has an obligation and unique role to play in developing priciples and guidelines for governments, social partners and other stakeholders in labour migration policy and practice.

The ILO convened a tripartite meeting of experts, which met in Geneva from 31 October to 2 November 2005, and debated and adopted the ILO Multilateral Framework on Labour Migration: Non-binding principles and guidelines for a rights-based approach to labour migration". The ILO Governing Body at its 295th Session in March 2006 decided that the Framework should be published and disseminated.