International Labour Standards

International labour standards play an important role in the elaboration of national laws, policies and judicial decisions, and in the provisions of collective bargaining agreements. Whether or not a country has ratified a particular Convention, the standards provide guidance for the operation of national labour institutions and mechanisms, and good labour and employment practices. Thus, international labour standards have an impact on both national law and national practice, which goes well beyond simply adapting legislation to the requirements of a ratified Convention.

By the end of December 2009, the ILO had adopted 188 Conventions and 199 Recommendations.