The Path to Progress: EU Approaches a Milestone Treaty to Combat Workplace Violence and Harassment

Euro Union Takes Step Towards Ending Violence and Harassment at Work

Background

In a long-awaited move, the Council of the European Union has adopted a draft decision calling on member states to ratify the International Labor Organization’s (ILO) Violence and Harassment Convention (ILO C190). This treaty, adopted in 2019, sets international legal standards for preventing and addressing violence and harassment in the workplace. It not only requires governments to establish comprehensive laws against harassment and violence but also mandates employers to maintain workplace policies against such behavior. The convention covers all workers, including trainees, former employees, job seekers, and applicants, and applies to both formal and informal sectors.

The Significance of the Treaty

The ILO C190 is a milestone in the fight to eliminate gender-based violence in the workplace. It not only sets clear standards but also compels governments to take proactive action in preventing and addressing workplace violence and harassment. By ratifying the treaty, European Union member states have the opportunity to create comprehensive national laws that provide protection, prevention measures, complaints mechanisms, monitoring, enforcement, and support for survivors. The treaty also has implications for addressing the effects of domestic violence in the workplace.

Call for Prompt Ratification

While seven EU member states (Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Spain, and Italy) have already ratified the treaty, others have delayed doing so, waiting for the EU Council’s decision. With the adoption of the draft decision by the EU Council, it is imperative that the European Parliament swiftly gives its consent for formal adoption. Additionally, EU member states should promptly ratify the treaty and align their laws and policies with its provisions. Employers too should take action by working with unions and worker organizations to establish workplace policies and collective bargaining agreements that are in line with the treaty.

Philosophical Discussion: The Right to Safety and Dignity at Work

The right to safety and dignity at work is a fundamental human right that should be guaranteed to all individuals. Violence and harassment not only violate this right but also perpetuate inequality and discrimination in the workplace. By ratifying the ILO C190 and implementing its provisions, EU member states can take a significant step towards safeguarding this right and creating a more inclusive and equitable working environment.

The Role of Employers and Collective Bargaining

Employers play a crucial role in ensuring workplace safety and preventing violence and harassment. It is important that they actively engage with workers, unions, and worker organizations to develop policies and practices that promote a respectful and safe working environment. By involving workers in the decision-making process and facilitating collective bargaining agreements, employers can address the specific needs and concerns of their workforce. This collaborative approach can lead to stronger workplace protections and a culture of mutual respect.

The Importance of Legislative Reform

Ratifying the ILO C190 requires not only the adoption of comprehensive national laws but also the reform of existing legislation. Member states must ensure that their legal frameworks adequately cover the full range of violence and harassment in the workplace, including online harassment and gender-based violence. Legislation must also include provisions for prevention, support for survivors, and effective enforcement mechanisms. It is essential that member states prioritize legislative reform to bridge any gaps in protection and align their laws with international standards.

Editorial: An Urgent Call for Action

It is encouraging to see that the Council of the European Union has taken a significant step towards eradicating violence and harassment in the workplace by adopting a draft decision on the ILO C190. This decision provides a clear mandate for EU member states to ratify the treaty and align their laws and policies with its provisions.

Nonetheless, it is vital that this progress is not met with complacency. The European Parliament must swiftly give its consent for the adoption of the Council’s decision, and member states should expedite the ratification process. Delaying the ratification undermines the urgency of addressing workplace violence and harassment, thereby prolonging the suffering of countless individuals.

Furthermore, the adoption of the treaty should not be seen as a mere box-ticking exercise. Member states must actively engage with stakeholders, including employers, workers, unions, and civil society organizations, to ensure comprehensive and effective implementation. Employers have a crucial role to play in combating violence and harassment through the development and enforcement of robust workplace policies. Legislative reform is also a priority, as existing laws may fall short in adequately addressing the diverse forms of violence and harassment.

Advice for Moving Forward

To facilitate the path to progress and create safer workplaces for all, the following steps are recommended:

Swift Ratification and Adoption

EU member states should promptly ratify the ILO C190 and align their laws and policies with its provisions. The European Parliament should expedite the adoption of the Council’s decision to formalize the commitment to ending violence and harassment in the workplace.

Collaboration and Collective Bargaining

Employers should actively engage with workers, unions, and worker organizations to develop workplace policies and collective bargaining agreements that prioritize safety, respect, and dignity. By involving workers in decision-making processes, employers can address the specific needs and concerns of their workforce.

Comprehensive Legislative Reform

Member states must assess and reform existing legislation to ensure it provides adequate protection against violence and harassment in all its forms. Legislative reform should cover prevention measures, support for survivors, and effective enforcement mechanisms. It is crucial that member states bridge any gaps in protection and align their laws with international standards.

It is time to act decisively to end violence and harassment in the workplace. By ratifying the ILO C190 and implementing its provisions, EU member states can demonstrate their commitment to ensuring the right to safety and dignity for all workers.

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