Relations with Parliamentarians

As the legislative branch of governments, parliaments are important partners for the ILO. Their activities intersect with the ILO at different levels. Depending on their constitutional mandates, they ratify international treaties (which include international labour Conventions), and they adopt and give effect to legislation on matters related to employment, social protection, and rights at work. They oversee budgetary, economic and development policies.

The ILO interacts with parliamentarians principally through their international associations. The Inter-Parliamentary Union is a direct partner. The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 1999, granting each other observer status in their meetings and encouraging cooperation. For background, see the Governing Body paper.

The PARTNERSHIPS portal is a regular source of information aimed at providing parliamentarians, among others, regular information on ILO and programmes.