What is the ILO?

The International Labour Organization (ILO): Origins, Evolution, and Impact on Canada and the USA

What is the ILO? The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a pivotal institution dedicated to promoting social justice and internationally recognized labour standards. Established in the aftermath of World War I, the ILO has played a critical role in shaping labour policies, advocating for workers’ rights, and fostering equitable labour practices globally. Its influence on Canada and the USA underscores its far-reaching impact on labour standards and social protections in developed economies.


Origins of the ILO

The ILO was founded in 1919 as part of the Treaty of Versailles, which formally ended World War I. The devastation of the war, combined with the growing labour movements and social unrest in industrialized nations, created an urgent need for an international body to address workers’ rights and conditions. The ILO was designed to function as a tripartite organization, bringing together governments, employers, and workers to jointly develop and implement labour standards.

Key figures instrumental in its creation included:

The ILO was initially headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, symbolizing its neutral and inclusive approach. Its mandate, articulated in the Preamble of the ILO Constitution, emphasized the need for humane conditions of labour, fair treatment, and economic equity to prevent social tensions and conflict.


Core Principles and Objectives

The ILO’s core principles are rooted in the idea that universal and lasting peace can only be established if it is based on social justice. Its objectives include:

  1. Setting International Labor Standards: Establishing conventions and recommendations that define minimum labour standards for member states.
  2. Promoting Decent Work: Advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and social protection for workers worldwide.
  3. Fostering Dialogue: Encouraging cooperation among governments, employers, and workers to resolve labour disputes and promote harmonious industrial relations.
  4. Eliminating Exploitation: Combating child labour, forced labour, and discrimination in the workplace.

The ILO’s standards are codified in Conventions (binding agreements ratified by member states) and Recommendations (guidelines for implementation). Landmark conventions, such as those on freedom of association (No. 87) and minimum age for employment (No. 138), have become global benchmarks for labour rights.


Evolution of the ILO

Over the decades, the ILO has evolved to address emerging challenges in the global labour landscape. Key milestones include:

The ILO’s adaptability has enabled it to remain relevant in addressing contemporary issues, such as the gig economy, workplace automation, and climate change’s impact on labour markets.


Impact on Canada

Canada joined the ILO as a founding member in 1919 and has since played an active role in its governance and initiatives. The ILO’s influence on Canadian labour policies is evident in several areas:

  1. labour Standards: Canada has ratified numerous ILO conventions, including those on occupational health and safety, gender equality, and child labour. These conventions have informed federal and provincial labour laws, such as the Canada Labour Code.
  2. Occupational Health and Safety: The ILO’s emphasis on workplace safety has influenced Canada’s robust occupational health and safety framework, including the adoption of measures to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.
  3. Social Dialogue: The tripartite model of the ILO aligns with Canada’s approach to labour relations, which emphasizes cooperation among governments, employers, and workers.
  4. Advancing Indigenous Rights: The ILO’s conventions on equality and non-discrimination have supported Canada’s efforts to address labour inequities faced by Indigenous communities.

Canada also contributes to the ILO’s work through funding, expertise, and participation in global initiatives, reflecting its commitment to promoting decent work worldwide.


Impact on the USA

The United States was instrumental in the ILO’s founding and has remained a key participant in its activities. Although the U.S. has ratified fewer ILO conventions than Canada, its influence on the organization and adoption of its principles is significant:

  1. Minimum Wage and Working Hours: Early ILO standards helped shape U.S. labour laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938, which established minimum wage and maximum working hours.
  2. Freedom of Association: The ILO’s conventions on collective bargaining have informed the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which protects workers’ rights to unionize and engage in collective bargaining.
  3. Combatting Forced Labor: The U.S. collaborates with the ILO to combat forced labour and human trafficking through initiatives such as the Global Alliance Against Forced Labor.
  4. Global Leadership: As a major funder, the U.S. supports the ILO’s technical assistance programs in developing countries, aligning with its broader foreign policy goals.

The ILO’s influence extends beyond policy, shaping public discourse on workers’ rights and corporate responsibility in the U.S.


Collaborative Impact on North America

The ILO has facilitated cooperation between Canada and the U.S. on labour issues, particularly through trade agreements. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) incorporates labour provisions inspired by ILO standards, ensuring fair labour practices across North America. Both countries also collaborate with the ILO on addressing global challenges, such as modern slavery, gender inequality, and the impact of technology on employment.


Conclusion

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has profoundly shaped labour standards and policies worldwide, including in Canada and the U.S. Its origins in the aftermath of World War I reflect a commitment to social justice and the belief that economic stability is rooted in fair treatment of workers. Over a century later, the ILO remains a vital force in promoting decent work and addressing emerging labour challenges. For Canada and the U.S., the ILO’s influence is evident in their labour laws, social protections, and international collaborations, underscoring the enduring relevance of its mission in an evolving global landscape.