International Labor Standards and Children’s Rights
International Labour Organization (ILO)
Overview
Founded in 1919, the International Labour Organization (ILO) is an international association dedicated to protecting workers’ rights. The ILO ensures worker protection and is structured similarly to a state’s internal organization.
International Labour Conference
The International Labour Conference, the ILO’s supreme body, develops, adopts, and monitors the implementation of Conventions and Recommendations (ILO standards). These standards sanction international labor practices.
ILO Instruments
- Conventions: Legally binding instruments creating international obligations for Member States to ratify.
- Recommendations: Guidelines for the regulatory development of each state.
- Resolutions: Generally less formal, preparatory agreements.
Conventions and Recommendations
Both Conventions and Recommendations require a two-thirds majority vote for approval by the International Labour Conference. Conventions are binding international treaties upon ratification, while Recommendations are non-binding suggestions for improving working conditions.
International Labor Standards
International labor standards are central to the ILO’s activities. Over time, Member State governments, employer organizations, and worker organizations have developed standards covering all areas of work, including abolishing forced labor, freedom of association, and social security.
Annual Meeting
Representatives from governments, employers, and workers of all Member States meet annually in Geneva to adopt or revise rules that become international labor Conventions and Recommendations.
National Implementation
National-level measures for enforcing agreements are crucial. Even in countries that haven’t ratified a specific convention, the existence of international labor standards influences national legislation.
ILO’s Strength
The ILO’s strength lies in its regulatory system, which constantly seeks consensus among public authorities, employers, and workers.
Key Conventions
- Convention 29 (1930): Forced Labor
- Convention 87 (1948): Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise
- Convention 100 (1951): Equal Remuneration
- Convention 138 (1973): Minimum Age
International Declaration of the Rights of the Child
Origins
In 1924, the League of Nations adopted the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child, which laid the groundwork for the 1959 International Declaration of the Rights of the Child. This declaration recognized children as individuals with rights, a concept not previously established. The declaration was intended for incorporation into the national legislation of signatory states.
Ten Basic Principles
- Universal Rights: Every child is entitled to all rights outlined in the declaration.
- Special Protection: Children deserve special protection for physical and mental development in equality, freedom, and dignity.
- Nationality: Children have the right to a nationality from birth (ius soli or ius sanguinis).
- Social Security: Children should grow and develop in good health with access to food, housing, recreation, and medical services.
- Medical Care: Children have the right to necessary medical care, particularly pediatric care.
- Parental Protection: Children should grow under parental care or, if unavailable, state protection.
- Education: Children have the right to free and compulsory education, at least at the elementary level.
- Priority Protection: Children should be among the first to receive protection and relief.
- Protection from Neglect: Children must be protected from all forms of neglect.
- Protection from Discrimination: Children must be protected from all forms of discrimination.
Declaration’s Significance
The declaration reflects evolving perspectives on children and emphasizes their distinct personality, appropriate treatment, and protection. It promotes the full recognition of children’s rights and advocates for reforms that prioritize their well-being.