ILO Violence and Harassment Convention to enter into force in June 2021

Adopted by the International Labour Conference in June 2019, Convention No. 190 is a landmark instrument. It is the first international labour standard to address violence and harassment in the world of work. Together with Recommendation No. 206 , it provides a common framework for action and a unique opportunity to shape a future of work based on dignity and respect. The Convention affirms that everyone has the right to a world of work free from violence and harassment. It includes the first international definition of violence and harassment in the world of work, including gender-based violence.

PSI celebrates the explicit inclusion of the public sector in the protection provided by this Convention and Recommendation and the inclusion of public sector workers and employers in the implementation mechanisms. We have fought to achieve this for a long time and the fact that this instrument, although not specifically about public sector workers, includes them represents a milestone in our struggle.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how violence and harassment are systemic in the world of work, including gender-based violence. Now, more than ever, it is urgent to ratify and implement this convention. #RatifyC190