Philippines first Asian Nation to ratify ILO Convention 190

The Philippines has made history by becoming the first Asian country to ratify the International Labour Organization's (ILO) Convention 190, also known as the Violence and Harassment Convention. This groundbreaking move signifies the Philippines' commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive world of work, free from violence and harassment.

What is ILO Convention 190?

ILO Convention 190, adopted in June 2019, is a comprehensive international treaty that aims to address violence and harassment in the world of work. The convention recognizes that violence and harassment in the workplace constitute a human rights violation and a threat to equal opportunities, which is unacceptable and incompatible with decent work. (Source: ILO)

The convention covers all forms of violence and harassment, including physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse, and applies to all sectors of economic activity, both formal and informal. It also extends beyond the physical workplace to include work-related communications, commutes, and situations involving third parties. (Source: ILO)

Significance of the Philippines' Ratification

By ratifying Convention 190, the Philippines has taken a crucial step towards creating a safer and more inclusive working environment for its citizens. This ratification carries significant weight, as the Philippines is the first country in Asia and the 38th globally to ratify this critical convention. (Source: Philippine News Agency)

"The Philippines' ratification is a historic landmark for the ILO's global campaign to end violence and harassment in the world of work," said ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo. "This demonstrates the country's unwavering commitment to promoting a world of work free from violence and harassment, where all workers, regardless of their contractual status, can enjoy their fundamental rights and dignity." (Source: ILO)

Addressing Violence and Harassment in the Workplace

The ratification of Convention 190 underscores the Philippines' recognition of the pervasive and devastating impact of violence and harassment in the workplace. According to a 2018 study by the ILO and the European Union, approximately 59 million workers in the Philippines have experienced some form of violence and harassment in the past 12 months. (Source: ILO)

Workplace violence and harassment can take various forms, including physical assault, verbal abuse, bullying, sexual harassment, and psychological intimidation. These behaviors not only violate the fundamental rights of workers but also have detrimental effects on their physical and mental health, productivity, and overall well-being.

By ratifying Convention 190, the Philippines has committed to adopting comprehensive national laws and policies to prevent and address violence and harassment in the world of work. This includes provisions for monitoring, enforcement, and access to remedies for victims, as well as the implementation of awareness-raising campaigns and training programs. (Source: ILO)

Aligning with Existing Philippine Laws

The Philippines' ratification of Convention 190 aligns with the country's existing legal framework aimed at protecting workers' rights and promoting a safe and inclusive workplace. Laws such as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, the Safe Spaces Act of 2019, and the Magna Carta of Women already provide legal protections against various forms of violence and harassment. (Sources: Philippine Commission on Women, Philippine News Agency)

However, the ratification of Convention 190 will further strengthen the country's legal and policy framework by aligning it with international standards and best practices. It will also encourage the adoption of a more comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing violence and harassment in the world of work, encompassing all sectors and types of employment relationships.

Regional and Global Implications

The Philippines' ratification of Convention 190 has far-reaching implications beyond its national borders. As the first Asian country to ratify the convention, the Philippines has set an example for other nations in the region and globally to follow suit.

"The Philippines' ratification is a significant milestone that paves the way for more countries in Asia and the Pacific to ratify this crucial instrument," said Chihoko Asada-Miyakawa, ILO Assistant Director-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. "It sends a strong message that the region is committed to ending violence and harassment in the world of work." (Source: ILO)

By taking this bold step, the Philippines has positioned itself as a leader in promoting decent work and upholding workers' rights. This action may inspire other countries in the region and beyond to prioritize the ratification and implementation of Convention 190, creating a ripple effect that could potentially transform workplaces worldwide.

Moving Forward: Implementation and Collaboration

While the ratification of Convention 190 is a significant achievement, the real work lies ahead in ensuring its effective implementation. The Philippines must now focus on translating the convention's provisions into concrete policies, laws, and enforcement mechanisms to create tangible change in workplaces across the country.

Collaboration between the government, employers' organizations, workers' representatives, and civil society will be crucial in developing comprehensive strategies to prevent and address violence and harassment in all sectors and types of employment. (Source: ILO)

Additionally, the Philippines can leverage its experience and expertise to support other countries in the region in their efforts to ratify and implement Convention 190. By sharing best practices, providing technical assistance, and fostering regional cooperation, the Philippines can play a vital role in accelerating the global momentum towards creating safer and more inclusive workplaces.

Conclusion

The Philippines' ratification of ILO Convention 190 is a historic achievement that demonstrates the country's commitment to promoting a world of work free from violence and harassment. As the first Asian nation to take this step, the Philippines has set an example for the region and the world, positioning itself as a leader in upholding workers' rights and promoting decent work.

While the ratification is a significant milestone, the real work lies ahead in ensuring effective implementation and promoting widespread adoption of the convention's principles. By collaborating with stakeholders at the national, regional, and global levels, the Philippines can continue to drive positive change and create safer, more inclusive, and more equitable workplaces for all.