Violence and harassment at work damage lives and livelihoods. Whether in the workplace, in public spaces or at home, it is the most widespread violation or abuse of human rights in the world.
Violence and harassment at work have severe social and economic costs for individuals and families, and for all societies, including costs for public services, lost income and productivity.
Three years ago, the ILO adopted the first international treaty on violence and harassment in the world of work: Convention 190 and its accompanying Recommendation 206.
ILO Convention 190 recognizes the right of everyone to a world of work free from violence and harassment, including gender-based violence and harassment.
C190 also recognizes that women, as well as other people belonging to vulnerable groups, are at greater risk and calls for an inclusive, integrated and gender-responsive approach to prevent and end all forms of violence and harassment in the job.
To realize this right and leave no one behind, we need all countries to ratify and implement C190.
Universal ratification will help ensure a decent and respectful life for all and will contribute to our goal of promoting decent work and social justice for all.
Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and every day, I urge all countries to ratify and implement C190.