Solidarity between employers and workers critical to respond effectively to Covid pandemic: ILO

Collective efforts and solidarity between employers’ and workers’ organizations is critical to respond effectively to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the world of work, the International Labour Organization (ILO) said.

"In crisis settings, collaboration and dialogue between employers and business membership organizations (EBMOs) and workers’ organizations can boost economic and social progress and enable accelerated recovery," ILO said in its latest report .

COVID-19 has in many parts of the world jeopardized the health and safety of millions of people, and put immense pressure on businesses, jobs, and livelihoods.


The study highlights specific cases where joint (and sometimes spontaneous) actions taken by social partners helped to mitigate some of the worst consequences of natural and human-made disasters, speeding up recovery and strengthening resilience to cope with future crises.

“Business leaders have a vested interest in peace and stability and in being well prepared for crisis situations,” Deborah France-Massin, director of the ILO’s Bureau for Employers Activities said.

"This, in turn, have a huge mobilization potential through their members; either to lobby for legislative and constitutional changes in favour of the workforce, or to act swiftly and effectively when humanitarian assistance is required.”

“It is our hope that this report inspires social partner organizations globally on the unique and complementary role they play and can play in complex situations of disaster and conflict, as well as pandemics like COVID-19,” said Maria Helena Andre, Director of the ILO’s Bureau for Workers’ Activities.

“The ILO will continue to harness our organization’s strength, our normative mandate and tripartism, and channel our resources to support this shared agenda.”