The only tripartite U.N. agency, since 1919 the ILO brings together governments, employers, and workers of 187 member States. They together set labor standards, develop policies and devise programs promoting decent work for all women and men. After the demise of the League of Nations, the ILO became the first specialized agency associated with the UN in 1946.

Headquarters:  Geneva, Switzerland

Objectives: The main aim of the ILO are to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues.

Member Countries: 187 member states. India is a founding member of the ILO.

ILO functions through three main bodies

1. The International labour Conferencesets the International labor standards and the broad policies of the ILO. It meets annually in Geneva. Often called an international parliament of labour.
2. TheGoverning body is the executive council of the ILO. It meets three times a year in Geneva.
3. Lastly, The International Labour Officeis the permanent secretariat of the International Labour Organization.

Reports Published: 

• World Employment and Social Outlook
• Global Wage Report
• World Social Protection Report

Significance:

• It received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1969for improving peace among classes, pursuing justice for workers, and for technical assistance to other developing nations.
• ILO designates some member countries as nations of “Chief Industrial Importance”. The designated nations are Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The industrial population is the criteria for chief Industrial Importance.
• In 1988, the international labor conference adopted the “Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work”. The declaration aims to eliminate all forms of forced or compulsory labour, abolition of child labour, and elimination of discrimination in employment and occupation.

Source: Important United Nations Organisations