Ghana joins International Labour Conference in Geneva
Ghana is actively taking part in the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, with a delegation led by Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo. The country joins 186 other member states to engage in critical discussions on labor rights, workplace standards, and social protection in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment, and the Information Services Department in a joint statement copied to the Ghana News Agency said the ILC, often referred to as the International Parliament of Labour, was the highest decision-making body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
It said this annual event held in Geneva, Switzerland, within the months of May/June, brings together representatives from all 187 Member States to address critical issues concerning labour rights, standards, and policies.
The statement said Dr Pelpuo, would lead this year’s Ghana’s delegation, comprised of representatives from the Government, Organized Labour, and the Employers Association to Geneva from June 2nd to 14th. It said Ghana’s participation in the ILC was essential for several reasons: it enhances the country’s international image, allowing it to highlight its commitment to labor rights and social dialogue.
The statement said through this platform, delegates could gain valuable insights into effective labor policies, which could be applied to national projects and programmes. It noted that additionally, the conference serves as a forum for promoting and strengthening social dialogue at both international and national levels, while also overseeing the implementation of international labor instruments within Ghana.
“This year’s conference will address critical items, including protection against biological hazards in the workplace, decent work in the platform economy, and transition towards formality,” the statement said.
“These discussions aim to establish standards to enhance worker rights and protections in an evolving labour landscape.” The statement said technical committees would be formed to delve deeper into these issues, including the Committee on the Application of Standards, which would assess compliance with ILO conventions.
It said the Conference would further be graced by Mr Gilbert Houngbo, the Director General of the ILO, who would deliver a report on the theme “Jobs, Rights and Growth; Reinforcing the Connection.” It said in addition to the main sessions, the ILC will feature side events, such as the commemoration of the World Day Against Child Labour and the Global Coalition for Social Justice Forum. The statement reiterated that these events highlight the conference’s commitment to addressing pressing social issues. It said Ghana’s participation in the ILC was not only about fulfilling an obligation; it was an opportunity to contribute to the global dialogue on labour standards and to learn from the experiences of other nations. It said by actively engaging in these discussions, Ghana could enhance its labour policies, promote social dialogue, and play a vital role in shaping the future of work both domestically and internationally.
