Conference on Preventing and Addressing Violence and Harassment in the World of Work through Occupational Safety and Health

📅 23 January 2024
Geneva, Switzerland & Virtual

This event aims to disseminate the research findings and foster discussion among government representatives, social partners, and other stakeholders on benefits, challenges, and gaps in addressing and preventing violence and harassment through OSH frameworks.

The principle of zero tolerance towards violence and harassment in the workplace is enshrined in the ILO Convention on Violence and Harassment, 2019 (No.190), and its accompanying Recommendation (No.206). These instruments concretize the right of every individual to a work environment free from violence and harassment, offering a comprehensive framework for elimination, prevention, and response.

To support Member States’ efforts to address violence and harassment in the world of work, the ILO, supported by the European Commission and ILO funds, is undertaking a significant research initiative. This project explores the role of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) framework in combating workplace violence and harassment. It delves into the synergy between legal policies and practical tools, assessing their impact on formulating effective strategies against this complex issue.

The project’s core deliverables include a global report consolidating desk research, legal and policy analysis from selected countries, and detailed studies from seven countries. Furthermore, a high-profile conference is slated for January 2024 in Geneva, Switzerland.

This event aims to disseminate the research findings and foster discussion among government representatives, social partners, and other stakeholders on benefits, challenges, and gaps in addressing and preventing violence and harassment through OSH frameworks. The conference will feature national OSH authorities, distinguished experts, and members of academics, creating a platform for sharing insights and advancing legal and policy responses to workplace violence and harassment.

Objectives

The conference aims to:

• Present and discuss the report’s findings and recommendations, emphasizing diverse approaches to mitigating workplace violence and harassment.
• Facilitate in-depth discussions on the report’s insights into using OSH strategies for prevention and response.
• Provide an interactive forum for ILO constituents, experts, and academics to exchange knowledge and contemplate future directions in tackling workplace violence and harassment through OSH and other mechanisms.

Registration