4-7. ILO Convention Ratification Status and the Responsibility of Multinational Corporations

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has adopted numerous conventions to improve workers' fundamental rights and working conditions. The Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, in particular, emphasizes internationally recognized labor standards such as freedom of association, the abolition of forced labor, the elimination of child labor, and the elimination of discrimination. Multinational corporations have a responsibility to understand the ratification status of these conventions in their home countries and host countries, and to create a working environment that aligns with these international standards.

1. Current Status of ILO Convention Ratification

More than 190 ILO conventions have been adopted, but ratification rates vary significantly by country. Key conventions concerning the rights of labor unions, such as the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention (No. 87) and the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention (No. 98), are considered indicators of international standing. Japan has ratified many of the eight core conventions, but some remain unratified, and the international community continues to call for their ratification.

2. Responsibilities of Multinational Corporations

Multinational corporations are required to check labor standards not only in their home country but also in their host countries and ensure a working environment that adheres to ILO standards. In developing and emerging countries, in particular, labor laws and their enforcement may be inadequate, leading to problems such as child labor, excessive working hours, and insufficient occupational health and safety. Therefore, companies themselves must voluntarily respect the spirit of ILO conventions and implement them as a global policy.

3. Key Practical Responses

• Articulate Labor Policy: Formulate a human rights and labor policy based on ILO conventions and share it across all business sites.

• Supply Chain Audits: Audit the working conditions of partner companies and subcontractors, and provide corrective guidance if non-compliance is found.

• Education and Awareness Campaigns: Inform local workers and managers about the basic principles of ILO conventions to raise awareness at the ground level.

• Transparent Information Disclosure: Publicly disclose the status of labor standard compliance in CSR or sustainability reports to fulfill accountability to investors and consumers.

4. Connection with EHS

ILO conventions are closely related to EHS management as they guarantee a safe and healthy working environment, in addition to human rights and working conditions. Ratifying and implementing conventions related to occupational health and safety also leads to risk reduction and an increase in a company's brand value.

Summary

The ratification status of International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions is an indicator of a country's labor environment, and multinational corporations must go beyond this to protect workers. Proactively addressing and complying with international standards not only helps avoid legal risks but is also an effective way to achieve sustainable management and gain the trust of investors and consumers.