The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) supports fully the ratification of the International Labor Organization’s (ILO) Convention 190 (C190) “on the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work.”
In a statement, the CHR cited in particular C190 “for its revolutionary provisions that obligate the government, as primary duty bearers, to prevent, address, and eradicate work-related violence and harassment in the ‘world of work.’"
"This means that situations associated with or arising out of work are also included in the scope of protection of C190," the CHR explained.
"For instance, violations involving co-workers or superiors that may have happened in digital or public spaces can also be held accountable."
Under C190, “the term ‘violence and harassment’ in the world of work refers to a range of unacceptable behaviors and practices, or threats thereof, whether a single occurrence or repeated, that aim at, result in, or are likely to result in physical, psychological, sexual or economic harm, and includes gender-based violence and harassment.”
On the other hand, the term “gender-based violence and harassment” under C190 “means violence and harassment directed at persons because of their sex or gender, or affecting persons of a particular sex or gender disproportionately, and includes sexual harassment.”
C190 “protects workers and other persons in the world of work, including employees as defined by national law and practice, as well as persons working irrespective of their contractual status, persons in training, including interns and apprentices, workers whose employment has been terminated, volunteers, jobseekers and job applicants, and individuals exercising the authority, duties or responsibilities of an employer.”
It “applies to all sectors, whether private or public, both in the formal and informal economy, and whether in urban or rural areas.”
Not only does C190 uphold workers' labor rights, but it also promotes social justice and gender equality, and will help improve performance in the workplace, the CHR said.
It also said: "When women workers feel valued, they are more likely to be motivated to perform their duties to the best of their abilities. On a macroeconomic level, it creates an enabling environment conducive to higher worker productivity, increased job satisfaction, and better employee wellbeing."
The CHR then urged leaders and policymakers to take "notable steps" parallel to the ratification of C190 in order to address gender gaps in the workplace and ensure that both men and women are in equal standing to receive economic opportunities, educational attainment, and political participation.
"Let us help resolve the compounding problems faced by the most marginalized in order to realize a truly humane and just society where all are equal in dignity and rights," the CHR stressed.