The 113th International Labour Conference (ILC), currently underway in Geneva, underscores the International Labour Organization's (ILO) enduring relevance in a rapidly evolving global work landscape.
Opening the conference, ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo emphasized that “the ILO’s normative mandate is more relevant than ever,” emphasizing its crucial role in navigating profound transformations affecting the world of work.
“This includes not only the development, implementation and supervision of international labour standards, but also the urgent need to ensure a level playing field in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing global economy.”
This commitment to fair global practices is central to the ILO's mission of advancing social justice through integrated policies, advocating for a better balance between economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
Houngbo acknowledged that multilateral institutions like the ILO are facing a period of profound change. While recognizing the uncertainty surrounding the future of multilateralism, he cautioned against nostalgia for an idealized past.
“We must instead remain firmly focused on the ILO’s unique purpose as set out in its Constitution, and the lasting contributions it has made globally,” he said. “As an institution, we must have the courage, humility, ability to listen and adapt, and the foresight to look resolutely to the future. This context calls for reform – reform for greater effectiveness, but also for greater efficiency.”
Houngbo also highlighted that slower global growth and rising trade tensions are putting pressure on job creation. He stressed that “employment is not a passive result of economic growth – it must be an active part of it,” calling for stronger links between job creation, workers’ protection, and inclusive, democratic development.
Key Discussion Areas
The annual ILC serves as a critical forum, convening worker, employer, and government delegates from the ILO’s 187 Member States. This year's agenda addresses a diverse range of issues with long-term implications for the future of work:
Biological Hazards at Work: A second discussion is underway to finalize proposed standards in this critical area, aiming to enhance worker safety.
Decent Work in the Platform Economy: This is the first standard-setting discussion on this emerging sector, highlighting the ILO’s commitment to ensuring fair labour practices in new work models.
Draft Programme and Budget for 2026–27: Delegates are reviewing proposed expenditures, contributions, and financial statements to guide the ILO's future operations.
Transition to Formality and Decent Work: A general discussion is taking place on innovative approaches to formalize informal economies and promote decent work conditions globally.
Application of International Labour Standards 2025: This session involves reviewing information and reports on the application of ILO Conventions and Recommendations by Member States.
Social Development Summit 2025: Tripartite input is being gathered on the ILO’s crucial contribution to the upcoming Social Development Summit.
Maritime Labour Convention (MLC): Proposed amendments to the Code of the MLC for 2025 are up for approval, ensuring the continued relevance and effectiveness of maritime labour standards.
Global Coalition for Social Justice
Further solidifying its collaborative efforts, the second Global Coalition for Social Justice Annual Forum is scheduled for June 12, 2025. This event will bring together Coalition partners and accredited ILO tripartite delegations, fostering dialogue and collective action on social justice initiatives.
The conference commenced with the election of Edgar Moyo, Minister of Public Service Labour and Social Welfare of Zimbabwe, as its President. Vice-Presidents elected include Juan Castillo (Governments) from Uruguay, Hamidou Diop (Employers) from Senegal, and Hédia Arfaoui (Workers) from Tunisia.
