ILO: “True sustainable progress requires clear regulation and enforcement”

ILO's Deputy Director-General Gilbert Houngbo

BRUSSELS - ILO's Deputy Director-General for field operations Gilbert Houngbo addressed a European Parliament hearing on business and respect for the human rights of workers (outside the EU).

“Today, there is growing awareness of the need for a fair globalization. Nevertheless, attacks on human and trade union rights are on the rise”, Houngbo said, referring to recent tragedies like the collapse of the Rana Plaza factory.

“Global supply chains have undoubtedly created much-needed jobs, especially in least developed economies, but at the same time, important question marks are raised about the quality of the jobs created and respect for workers’ fundamental rights”.

Mr Houngbo indicated law enforcement as one of the key challenges for worker’s rights in a globalized economy: “Several work-related tragedies witnessed in recent past would have been prevented if national and international standards had been applied. While working conditions and labour relations are typically regulated by national laws, in many low-income countries, enforcement of national laws is a serious challenge”, he said.

He concluded by calling for better regulation and law enforcement: “While solidarity, corporate social responsibility and technical assistance are important, true sustainable progress requires a clear and equitable regulatory environment, strong law enforcement and national institutions to enable social partners to do their job.”

The hearing was also attended by Mr Chaplier, European Coalition for Corporate Justice; Mr Benedict, International Trade Union Confederation and Ms Paul, International Federation for Human Rights.

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