Workers Raise International Labour Complaint
ILO Article 24 And Tea Workers’ Representation: Tea plantation workers from West Bengal recently invoked Article 24 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Constitution. They alleged poor working conditions, labour rights violations, inadequate wages, and lack of welfare measures in tea gardens. The move brought global attention to labour conditions in India’s plantation sector.
Under Article 24, workers’ organisations or employers’ associations can submit a representation against a member country if it fails to implement labour conventions that it has already ratified. This mechanism acts as an international accountability tool for labour rights protection.
Static GK fact: West Bengal is one of India’s leading tea-producing states along with Assam and Tamil Nadu.
Understanding Article 24
Article 24 of the ILO Constitution provides a formal representation procedure. It allows recognised organisations of workers or employers to approach the ILO regarding violations of labour standards by member states. The complaint must relate to conventions officially ratified by the concerned country.
After receiving the representation, the ILO Governing Body may appoint a committee to examine the complaint and seek clarification from the government involved. The process increases international scrutiny on labour conditions and policy implementation.
Static GK Tip: Labour is listed in the Concurrent List of the Indian Constitution, allowing both Union and State governments to make labour laws.
About the International Labour Organisation
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) was established in 1919 under the Treaty of Versailles after the First World War. Its primary objective is to promote labour rights, social justice, decent working conditions, and fair employment opportunities across the world.
The organisation has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. India is a founding member of the ILO and actively participates in its policy discussions and labour initiatives.
The ILO became the first specialised agency of the United Nations in 1946. In 1969, it received the Nobel Peace Prize for advancing workers’ rights and social justice globally.
Static GK fact: Geneva is also the headquarters of organisations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Unique Tripartite Structure
One distinctive feature of the ILO is its tripartite structure. Unlike many international bodies, it includes representatives from governments, employers, and workers in decision-making processes. This system ensures balanced discussion on labour policies and industrial relations.
Currently, the organisation has 187 member states. It formulates labour standards through conventions and recommendations that guide countries in improving workplace conditions and employee welfare.
Importance for India
The recent use of Article 24 highlights growing attention toward labour welfare in plantation industries. Tea plantation workers often face issues related to housing, healthcare, sanitation, wages, and social security. International labour mechanisms may increase pressure for better implementation of labour protections.
The development also reflects the importance of global institutions in monitoring human rights and workplace standards in developing economies.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
ILO Article 24 And Tea Workers’ Representation:
| Topic | Detail |
| Article Invoked | Article 24 of ILO Constitution |
| Purpose of Article 24 | Representation against labour convention violations |
| Organisation | International Labour Organisation |
| Established | 1919 |
| Founding Treaty | Treaty of Versailles |
| Headquarters | Geneva, Switzerland |
| UN Status | First specialised agency of UN in 1946 |
| Nobel Peace Prize | Awarded in 1969 |
| Membership | 187 member states |
| India’s Status | Founding member of ILO |
