ILO calls for action to prevent violence and harassment in the workplace

ILO Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment came into force on 25 June 2021. It is the first international treaty of its kind to recognise the right of everyone in the workplace to be free from violence and harassment. It also provides the first international definition of violence and harassment in the world of work, including gender-based violence and harassment.

Convention 190 emphasizes that in preventing and eliminating violence and harassment, States must respect, promote, and realize freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining, the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour, the effective abolition of child labour and the elimination of discrimination in employment.

Since the military takeover in Myanmar in February this year, the ILO is increasingly hearing reports of violence and harassment in workplaces. In addition, since the COVID-19 pandemic began last year, reported cases of violence and harassment in the workplace, particularly against women and vulnerable groups, have risen globally.

“Violence and harassment in the workplace can constitute a human rights violation and harms the health, dignity and wellbeing of everyone at work. It threatens equal opportunities, is unacceptable and incompatible with decent work.​ It is incumbent on everyone to ensure that nobody is subject to intimidation and threats of violence in the workplace. I especially call on employers to take leadership in your workplaces to ensure they are safe places for everyone”- Donglin Li, ILO Liaison Officer/Representative said.

The 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence is an international campaign that commenced on 25 November—the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. It ends on 10 December, Human Rights Day.

To find out more about ILO Convention 190, follow this link.