The International Labour Conference has undertaken a recurrent discussion on fundamental principles and rights at work (FPRW). As a result, the International Labour Conference adopted a framework for action for the effective and universal respect, promotion and realization of fundamental principles and rights at work 2012–16 (see committee report p.157-167).

While important progress has been made since 1998 towards the universal application of fundamental principles and rights at work, significant gaps remain. This framework aims to accelerate the pace towards the effective and universal realization of FPRW. The framework will feed into a concrete plan of action for the period 2012-2016. The promotion of FPRW, or core labour standards, is also part of EU internal and external policies. The framework for action can be very useful for turning EU policies into concrete actions.