International labour standards are universally accepted rules providing minimum protection to employees and workers and promoting enterprise efficiency and productivity. They prevent erosion of labour rights and a “race to the bottom”, while keeping check of a level playing field in economic competition and international trade. In short, they are the rules of the game in economic production.
Some international labour standards deal with fundamental human rights issues such as child and forced labour, discrimination and freedom of association. They offer the opportunity for equal access to the labour market, based on education, skills and experience. In cases where certain groups face challenges to obtain equal access, like women workers, standards can help correct this situation.
Most international labour standards apply to all workers. This is especially important is South Asia where economies are predominantly informal, meaning that workers are not covered by basic labour laws. In this era of globalization and increased competition, international labour standards promote payment of minimum wages, sound labour conditions, weekly rest and other basic rights in the world of work irrespective of the nature of employment.