International Labour Organization

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is the United Nations agency for the world of work. Founded in 1919 and headquartered in Geneva, it advances social justice and internationally recognized human and labour rights, on the principle that social justice is essential to lasting peace. The organization brings together 187 Member States and maintains field offices worldwide.

The ILO sets and promotes international labour standards and fundamental rights at work through a tripartite structure that gives governments, employers and workers a voice in shaping policy. Its other principal lines of work include research, statistics and publications that inform global debate on employment and the world of work, and programmes and partnerships supporting decent and productive work, employment and income opportunities, and strengthened social protection.

Technical areas of focus span labour statistics and data, policy research, the development of international labour standards, social protection systems, and social dialogue and tripartism. The organization operates across the labour and employment, human rights, social protection, industrial relations, and public policy and international development sectors.