New standards vs workplace harassment, violence adopted

MANILA, Philippines — Workers in the Philippines and other countries can look forward to violence- and harassment-free workplaces after the International Labor Conference (ILC), adopted a new convention to combat and prevent these problem.

Manuela Tomei, International Labor Organization (ILO) work quality department director, said the Violence and Harassment Convention 2019 would enter into force 12 months after two member-states have ratified it.

“We now have an agreed definition of violence and harassment. We know what needs to be done to prevent and address it, and by whom,” she added.

The new convention defines violence and harassment as behaviors, practices or threats “that aim at, result in or are likely to result in physical, psychological, sexual or economic harm.”

Tomei said this is the first time a convention and recommendation on violence and harassment in the world of work have been adopted.             

Under this, workers irrespective of their contractual status as well as persons in training, interns and apprentices, terminated employees, volunteers and job seekers shall be protected from violence and harassment. 

The new convention also recognizes that “individuals exercising the authority, duties or responsibilities of an employer” can be subjected to violence and harassment. ?ILO director general Guy Ryder said the new international labor standard covers violence and harassment in places where a worker is paid, takes a rest or meal break or uses sanitary, washing or changing facilities; during work-related trips, travel, training, events or social activities; work-related communications, in employer-provided accommodation and when commuting to and from work. 

“It also recognizes that violence and harassment may involve third parties,” Ryder said, adding that the next step is now for member-states to put the protection into practice.

“I am sure that, given the co-operation and solidarity we have seen on this issue and the public demand for action, we will see speedy and widespread ratifications and action to implement,” Ryder added.

On the final day of the ILC in Geneva last week, delegates adopted the new Convention with 439 votes cast in favor, seven against and 30 abstentions.          

Aside from the convention, the ILC passed an accompanying recommendation to stop violence and harassment in the workplace. It said that violence and harassment in the world of work “can constitute a human rights violation or abuse and a threat to equal opportunities.”

The last international standard adopted by the ILC was the Domestic Work Convention in 2011. Conventions are legally binding international instruments, while Recommendations provide advice and guidance.