Brussels, 24/05/2006 (Agence Europe) - On 24 May, the European Commission committed itself to decent work for all to combat poverty and promote fair globalisation. The College, with broad consensus, adopted the communication “Promoting decent work for all - The EU contribution to the implementation of the decent work agenda in the world”. Drawn up on the initiative of Vladimir Spidla (Social Affairs) and supported by Louis Michel (Development), Peter Mandelson (Trade) and Benita Ferrero-Waldner (External Relations), the communication does not limit itself to promoting minimum working rights: it gives clear guidance on how to promote decent work, notably through job creation, improvement in governance, social dialogue and tackling corruption (see EUROPE 9197) This follows up on the Commission communication on the social dimension of globalisation and the social agenda. The communication will contribute to the efforts on decent work at the meetings of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva on 6 June and the UN Economic and Social Council in Geneva on 3-5 July. Mr Spidla will attend both meetings.
Meeting journalists, Mr Spidla acknowledged that the idea of “decent work” (formulated by the ILO and accepted by the UN) was not, in fact, very well defined and that it was more of an “open” idea. “By placing the emphasis on employment, the quality of employment and appropriate social policies, the promotion of decent work is a factor not only in justice and social cohesion but also in economic performance. The endorsement of social objectives cannot under any circumstances be used for protectionist purposes. The objective is to achieve social progress across the board and ensure that it is spread fairly for the benefit of all,” he said.
He gave examples of activities which promote decent work, mentioning in particular trade union freedom and the promotion of collective bargaining; combating forced labour, modern slavery and human trafficking; the fight against child labour; the protection of indigenous peoples; the protection and integration of migrant workers; the promotion of corporate social responsibility; and social protection for the vulnerable. The concept of decent work can be seen in several EU policies - research, enlargement, neighbourhood, regional and bilateral relations, he said. The Commission, he pointed out, continues to contribute financially to tackling child labour in Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the ACP countries.