The ILO regards social dialogue as a principle, an objective and a working method.

In order to forge a culture of democratic dialogue, rooted in the respect to human rights, the participation of everyone is required; universities and higher research institutes have proved to be privileged actors in this pursuit. These entities are now faced with the opportunity and challenge of training professionals, both men and women, capable of reaching agreements through dialogue, within the framework of the ethic principles founded on the values of peace and social justice and commitment with social development; they are creators of public opinion and builders of a universal culture.

>> Social Dialogue Academic Network

- Presentation

- Origin

The ILO has been in connection with the academy in a number of ways throughout its 85 years of institutional life in order to: devise programmes seeking professionalism in labour's public administration, promote and teach international labour law; conduct research in the field of occupational health and safety, etc.

The creation of the Social Dialogue Academic Network is a recent experience inscribed in that historical process. Its special features have a unique meaning and importance since their main objectives are to include social dialogue in careers curricula - not only in humanities-, contribute to the updating of teaching staffs and promote and carry out research and exchanges in this field. Through this undertaking, universities can strengthen their bonds with the labour world.

The Network, thus, is an opportunity to train youth and professionals concerned about finding a solution to the large national and international problems by means of the instrument of democratic dialogue that contributes to the building up of a world of decent work. This new and enriching experience invigorates the academic world and the ILO. Furthermore, it allows for a broad and productive dynamic horizontal co-operation in a direct and virtual manner.

At present, the Network is formed by prestigious universities in Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Chile, Italy, Peru, Spain, Uruguay and Venezuela as well as by ILO Offices in Latin America and the Caribbean, together with the International Training Centre of the ILO, Turin.

As from today, CINTERFOR takes a step forward by creating a window in the cyberspace to socialise aspirations and share dialogue experiences bolstered by the Network in the academic and socio-labour world.

From the ILO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean, we hereby express our enthusiasm and full support to this successful enterprise.

Eduardo Rodríguez Calderón
Regional Coordinator of the
Social Dialogue Academic Network