Freedom of Association in Practice: Lessons Learned

Achieving the goal of decent work for all women and men in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity is only possible if they can have a say in how this impacts on their work and living conditions as well as on economic and social development. This Global Report on freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining emphasises the need for a conducive environment in law and practice to facilitate collective bargaining and conflict resolution, well-functioning labour administration, and strong workers’ and employers’ organizations. It identifies positive developments in freedom of association, such as the emergence of various initiatives promoting it due to growing economic integration, but it also describes restrictions and interference representative organizations worldwide continue to face from the unprecedented challenges posed by structural and technological changes and globalization. Finally it describes the ILO response to these challenges through technical cooperation and assistance to member States and outlines a plan of action for the next four years.