Labour inspection in Arab countries: Recent crises and future challenges

This study considers the importance of labour inspection in Arab countries, and the need to improve its effectiveness in an environment facing dramatic political, economic and social change.

Author: Dr. Yousuf Elias


The first chapter covers the origins and evolution of labour inspection in both industrial and Arab countries, looking at the factors affecting the development of national labour inspection systems. It further reviews international labour standards and Arab legislation on labour inspection and the position of Arab countries in relation to these standards.


Chapter two looks at the legal and administrative regulations of labour inspection in Arab countries in relation to two main issues: the scope of labour inspection in international and Arab law, and the organizational structures of labour inspection systems both internationally and regionally.


The third chapter focuses on the main functions of labour inspection and how these are reflected in law and practice at both the international and national level in Arab countries.


In the fourth Chapter, the study looks at the human resources of labour inspectorates including the definitions, composition and conditions of work. It covers the participation of women in labour inspection, the role of experts and the involvement of the social partners in inspection activities.

Chapter five addresses both the powers and responsibilities of labour inspectors under international and domestic law.


In its conclusions the study contemplates the future prospects of labour inspection in Arab countries in light of current labour market realities and the many challenges threatening the effective action of labour inspectors.

The complete study is available [in Arabic only] on the website of the Arab Centre for Labour Administration and Employment, based in Tunis: www.aclae.org.tn