June 2022 – It is estimated that more than 3 million workers die every year because of their work, and tens of millions are injured. In a landmark decision, the International Labour Conference, held in Geneva in June 2022, has added health and safety to the ILO Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.

This means that all ILO member states commit to respect and promote the fundamental right to a safe and healthy working environment, whether or not they have ratified the relevant ILO Conventions.

This is the first extension of workers’ fundamental human rights, since the four rights were adopted in 1998:

• Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining
• The elimination of forced or compulsory labour
• The abolition of child labour
• The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation

To find out more about the ILO decision, and other amendments, click here

Picture credit: Incon Health