The President of the Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions, Mr. Kassahun Folo, has been elected as a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) governing body for the next three years.
In the 112th Assembly of the ILO held in Geneva, Switzerland, on June 9, 2024, Kassahun Folo received the highest number of votes among candidates from workers, governments, and employers, securing his position on the governing body.
The Assembly also elected Ethiopia as one of the Deputy Member States of the ILO Governing Body.
Ethiopia was chosen as one of the Deputy Member States, taking second place among seven African countries, following South Africa. The governing body comprises 28 government representatives, 14 employer representatives, and 14 employee representatives.
Ten of the government seats are permanently held by countries with significant industrial importance, while the remaining government seats are elected by representatives of the member governments.
The ILO’s governing body, made up of executive representatives from member states, oversees the organization’s policies, including the election of the director-general, and decides on programs and budgets for the next three years.
The election conference involved representatives from governments, employers, and workers, who collectively and individually provide guidance on existing and proposed provisions of the ILO.
This election signifies Ethiopia’s active participation in the ILO and enhances its ability to closely monitor and receive appropriate support from the organization.
The election of Kassahun Folo and the Ministry of Labor and Skills to the governing body enables Ethiopia to collaborate effectively with other ILO members.
The Governing Body of the ILO is crucial in appointing the Director-General, evaluating the implementation of ILO agreements and recommendations by member countries, and addressing complaints about violations of international labor standards. It also leads the organization’s efforts to promote social justice and improve working conditions worldwide.
