Future of Work Redefined: Highlights from the 113th ILC 2025 in Geneva

The 113th International Labour Conference (ILC), convened by the International Labour Organization (ILO), concluded successfully in Geneva, Switzerland, in June 2025. Known as the “International Parliament of Labour,” the ILC brought together delegates from governments, employers, and workers’ organizations from 187 ILO member states to discuss critical labor issues and adopt international standards.

This year’s session focused on strengthening labor protections in the digital age, advancing decent work, tackling occupational health challenges, and promoting inclusive growth—all within the framework of social justice and sustainable development.

Key Themes & Agendas Discussed at the 113th ILC

Decent Work in the Platform Economy

One of the most anticipated discussions revolved around the platform economy—covering workers in ride-hailing, food delivery, freelancing, and other app-based gigs. The conference emphasized the need to:

• Define employment status in the digital economy.

• Ensure social protections for gig workers.

• Address wage fairness and algorithmic management.

• Develop international labor standards specific to platform-based employment.

Occupational Safety & Health (OSH)

With rising concerns over workplace mental health, post-pandemic safety, and hazardous industries, the ILC examined ways to expand global frameworks for OSH. Discussions led to proposals for:

• Strengthening enforcement mechanisms.

• Recognizing mental health as part of OSH.

• Enhancing protections for workers in high-risk sectors like construction and mining.

Decent Work for Peace, Resilience, & Crisis Response

Given ongoing global conflicts and disasters, the ILC also focused on labor responses to humanitarian crises. Delegates endorsed:

• Labor-based approaches in post-conflict recovery.

• Employment generation for refugees and displaced people.

• Gender-sensitive crisis responses in labor systems.

The ILO’s Centenary Declaration Follow-up

Building upon the ILO Centenary Declaration (2019) for the future of work, this year's ILC reviewed progress and proposed:

• Concrete steps to implement universal labor guarantees.

• Support for lifelong learning and reskilling.

• Investment in green jobs and just transitions.

Major Outcomes & Resolutions

Adoption of a New Standard on Quality Apprenticeships

The ILC adopted a groundbreaking Recommendation on Quality Apprenticeships, aimed at standardizing apprenticeship systems globally. It includes:

• Protection of apprentices’ rights.

• Linkages between education systems and job markets.

• Gender equality and inclusion of marginalized youth.

Roadmap for Digital Labour Regulation

Recognizing the challenges posed by AI, automation, and remote work, the conference proposed a new roadmap to regulate digital labor markets, calling for

• Transparent data usage in algorithmic decision-making.

• Safeguards against digital discrimination.

• Global cooperation for platform worker rights.

Committee on the Application of Standards (CAS) Review

The CAS reviewed country compliance with existing conventions, spotlighting nations where labor rights are under threat. The conference called on member states to:

• Uphold freedom of association.

• Prevent forced labor and child labor.

• Strengthen labor inspections and enforcement.

India’s Participation at the 113th ILC

India sent a tripartite delegation comprising government representatives, employers’ bodies, and trade union leaders. Key highlights of India’s involvement:

• India supported the Apprenticeship Recommendation, aligning with its Skill India Mission.

• The delegation emphasized balancing platform economy growth with fair labor practices.

• India also advocated for deeper South-South cooperation in labor policies and social protection.

FAQs

What is the International Labour Conference (ILC)?

• The International Labour Conference (ILC) is the highest decision-making body of the International Labour Organization (ILO). It is held annually in Geneva, bringing together governments, workers, and employers from all 187 ILO member states to set international labor standards and shape global labor policies.

When and where was the 113th ILC held?

• The 113th International Labour Conference was held in Geneva, Switzerland, in June 2025. It featured in-depth discussions on digital labor, safety standards, apprenticeships, and global social justice.

What were the main topics discussed at the 113th ILC?

Key topics included:

• Rights of platform and gig economy workers

• Occupational safety and health (OSH) reforms

• A new Recommendation on Quality Apprenticeships

• Labor protections during crises and conflicts

• Future of work in the digital age

What is the significance of the new apprenticeship recommendation?

The new ILO Recommendation on Quality Apprenticeships sets international benchmarks to:

• Protect apprentices' rights

• Improve training quality

• Bridge the gap between education and employment

• Ensure equal access and inclusion for underrepresented groups

How did the ILC address platform workers' rights?

• The conference acknowledged growing concerns around algorithmic control, job insecurity, and lack of social protections in the gig economy. It proposed a digital labor roadmap to regulate work conditions, promote transparency, and enforce labor standards in app-based and remote employment.

How is India involved in the ILC?

• India actively participated through a tripartite delegation. The country backed the apprenticeship framework, advocated for fair regulation of digital labor, and emphasized the need for global collaboration on skill development and worker protections.

What is the role of the Committee on the Application of Standards (CAS)?

• The CAS monitors how ILO conventions are applied by member states. It reviewed cases of labor rights violations, such as issues with freedom of association, forced labor, and occupational safety. The CAS helps ensure accountability and compliance with ILO standards.

Why is the ILC important for the future of work?

• The ILC sets the global labor agenda, especially in times of technological and economic transformation. Its policies influence national laws, support sustainable development, and ensure workers are protected, respected, and included in shaping the future of work.

Voices from the Conference

“We cannot build inclusive economies if we continue to exclude the very people who sustain them—the workers. This conference reaffirms that labor justice is the bedrock of social justice.”
— Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General, ILO

“Technology must serve workers, not the other way around. We need global rules for a digital future that is fair, secure, and inclusive.”
— Worker Delegate from Brazil

The 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva marks a transformative chapter in global labor governance. As the world continues to navigate the turbulence of digital transformation, climate change, and socio-economic inequality, the ILC’s resolutions pave the way for a more equitable and resilient future of work.

By addressing platform economy vulnerabilities, expanding safety nets, promoting quality apprenticeships, and enforcing international standards, the ILC has reaffirmed its commitment to “social justice through decent work.”

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