How are international labour standards enforced?

The results over the years are thousands of documented cases of improvement in situations involving matters ranging from infringements of basic civil rights principles to everyday conditions of work.

The regular system of supervision

This system is based on the ratification of a labour standard and an obligation of regular, periodic reporting on measures taken to give effect to the provisions of the instrument.

The special systems of supervision

These mechanisms involve cases of specific allegations against a member State. Procedures under Article 24 and Article 26 of the ILO Constitution require that the Convention concerned be ratified.

Allegations concerning infringement of freedom of association principles -- principles at the foundation of the ILO -- may be brought against member States even if they have not ratified the Conventions concerned

Ad hoc mechanisms

Over the years, special supervisory mechanisms have been set up to oversee the effect given to international labour standards in particular circumstances.