New Delhi (ABC Live): The 113th International Labour Conference (ILC), held in Geneva from 2–13 June 2025, concluded with groundbreaking decisions. Chief among them was the adoption of Convention C192 to combat biological hazards in workplaces, a landmark step toward global occupational health and safety.

Convention C192: A Landmark for Worker Protection

For the first time in history, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has introduced a global standard specifically addressing biological hazards in the workplace. Known as Convention C192, this new standard calls on member states to develop national strategies focused on:

• Prevention of biological risks
• Risk preparedness and response
• Collaboration between employers and workers

? Read more about Convention C192 on the ILO website

Alongside the Convention, a Recommendation provides practical guidelines on risk assessment, early warning systems, and training protocols to prepare workplaces for biological threats, including pandemics and epidemics.

Comprehensive Framework for Biological Risk Management

By defining various exposure pathways—such as airborne, contact-based, or vector-borne transmission—the instruments offer a comprehensive and adaptable framework for preventing workplace infections.

Moreover, the Convention emphasizes collaboration. Employers are mandated to implement protective measures, while workers must be informed, trained, and included in safety planning. As a result, this dual approach ensures shared responsibility and resilience across sectors.

Social Dialogue and Justice Remain Central

ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, in his report Jobs, Rights and Growth: Reinforcing the Connection, underlined the importance of social dialogue and democratic institutions. During the conference, 18 new instruments of ratification from eight member states were also registered.

“We are duty-bound to move forward steadfastly in the quest for social justice,” Houngbo emphasized.

Platform Economy Standards in Progress

Another milestone of the 113th ILC was the first formal discussion on decent work in the platform economy. Delegates agreed on launching a new Convention and Recommendation to cover:

• Fundamental labour rights
• Fair wages and social security
• Data privacy and automation impacts
• Grievance redress mechanisms

This process will continue during the 114th ILC in 2026, with the goal of final adoption.

Tackling Informality: Transitioning to Formal Employment

Recognizing the urgent need to improve conditions for informal workers, the ILC adopted a Resolution on Formalization of Work. It recommends extending social protection, enhancing job quality, and developing country-specific strategies—backed by a global roadmap from the ILO.

? Explore the ILO’s work on informal to formal transitions

Stronger Rights for Seafarers Through Maritime Amendments

Delegates also approved seven amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, which will significantly improve conditions for seafarers by:

• Combating violence and harassment onboard
• Reinforcing the right to shore leave and repatriation
• Enhancing access to medical care
• Ensuring fair treatment in maritime incidents

These amendments reaffirm the recognition of seafarers as essential global workers.

Global Summit and Solidarity for Social Justice

The ILC endorsed the ILO’s involvement in the Second World Summit for Social Development, set for November 2025 in Doha, Qatar. A Resolution also ensured the participation of employers’ and workers’ organizations and mandated ILO leadership in post-summit monitoring.

In parallel, the Global Coalition for Social Justice held its annual forum. Key attendees included Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader, Brazil’s Labour Minister Luiz Marinho, and a wide array of international delegates.

Accountability: Spotlight on Myanmar and Belarus

A Resolution urged Myanmar’s military authorities to implement recommendations from the ILO Commission of Inquiry on forced labour and freedom of association. Separately, the ILC addressed continued repression of trade unionists in Belarus and called for full compliance with ILO Conventions Nos. 87 and 98.

Additional Key Decisions

• Palestine was invited to participate in ILO meetings as a non-member observer state.
• The Programme and Budget for 2026–27 was approved, detailing ILO’s financial planning.
• The Committee on Application of Standards reviewed the implementation of conventions in 24 countries.

Conclusion: A Historic Conference for Global Labour Policy

With over 5,400 delegates from 187 ILO member states, the 113th International Labour Conference has not only advanced worker protection with Convention C192 to combat biological hazards in workplaces, but also paved the way for safer digital platform work, stronger seafarer rights, and broader social protections. These decisions mark a pivotal shift in shaping the future of work, emphasizing health, equity, and global solidarity.

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