Why in news?
The 114th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) is being held in Geneva from 1 to 12 June 2026. Delegates are discussing crucial issues such as decent work in the platform economy, gender equality at work, social dialogue and the ILO’s programme and budget. India’s delegation, led by Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje, held bilateral meetings with counterparts from Nepal, Angola and Mauritius to explore cooperation on skill development, labour mobility and social protection.
Background
The International Labour Conference is the highest decision‑making body of the International Labour Organization (ILO). Often called the “international parliament of labour,” it meets annually in Geneva to set labour standards, adopt international conventions and elect the ILO’s governing body. Each member state sends four delegates – two from the government and one each representing employers and workers – all with equal voting rights. The first conference was held in 1919 following the Treaty of Versailles.
Agenda of the 114th session
- Programme and budget: Approval of the ILO’s programme of work and budget for 2026–27.
- Decent work in the platform economy: Delegates are negotiating a new international labour standard to protect workers in digital platforms such as ride‑hailing, delivery and freelancing. Worker organisations advocate for a convention that applies to all platform workers, ensures transparency of algorithms and requires platforms to bear operating costs.
- Gender equality: A general discussion focuses on closing gender gaps in wages, employment opportunities and leadership positions, and on preventing harassment at work.
- Social dialogue and tripartism: The conference reviews progress on involving employers, workers and governments in collective bargaining and policy‑making.
India’s engagement
The Indian delegation underscored the country’s commitment to inclusive growth, gender equality and digital skills. During meetings on the sidelines, Minister Shobha Karandlaje discussed collaboration on vocational training, labour mobility, social security and use of digital technology to improve workers’ welfare. India supports a balanced convention on platform work that protects workers while encouraging innovation.
Conclusion
The 114th ILC is addressing some of the most pressing challenges in today’s labour markets. Its outcomes could shape global standards for platform work and influence national policies on gender equality and social dialogue for years to come.