Sri Lanka advances efforts to ratify ILO convention on workplace violence

 

Sri Lanka is intensifying its efforts to protect workers’ rights and ensure safer workplaces by moving toward ratifying the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190 (C190), the landmark treaty addressing workplace violence and harassment.

A national workshop jointly organized by the Ministry of Labour and the ILO brought together government officials, employers, and workers’ organizations to build consensus on C190 and discuss strategies for its effective implementation.

Globally, over 22 percent of workers experience some form of workplace violence, highlighting the urgency of measures like C190, adopted in 2019, which guarantees every worker a safe and dignified work environment, including protection from gender-based and online harassment.

Hon. Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando stressed that ratifying C190 aligns with Sri Lanka’s policy framework outlined in “A Thriving Nation, A Beautiful Life”, which calls for revising laws and introducing new protections for workers, especially in workplaces and public transport.

Ms. Joni Simpson, ILO Country Director for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, said the ratification would strengthen social justice, improve enforcement mechanisms, and promote proactive prevention of all forms of work-related violence and harassment, particularly for marginalized groups.

Panel discussions explored the role of trade unions and employers in supporting ratification and implementation, noting that C190 could enhance worker safety, boost productivity, attract responsible investment, expand women’s employment, and support inclusive economic growth.

By ratifying C190, Sri Lanka aims to send a clear message nationally and internationally that workplace violence and harassment are unacceptable, setting a benchmark for dignity, equality, and ethical business practices across all sectors.

Source - https://www.dailymirror.lk/