On 19 June the first segment of the 109th International Labor Conference (ILC) came to a close with the adoption of conclusions on social protection and the application of international labour standards and an emergency resolution on Myanmar. Nearly 4,500 delegates from 181 ILO Member States took part in this first segment. Bulgaria participated with a 30-member tripartite delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Labour and Social Policy Galab Donev. Our country took an active part in the work of the ILC committees and in the elaboration of the resolutions and reports adopted by the Conference.

The impact of Covid-19 on the world of work was the main topic of the intensive discussions during the first virtual ILC in the history of the International Labor Organization (ILO). Delegates unanimously adopted a Global call to action for a human-centred recovery from the COVID-19 crisis that is inclusive, sustainable and resilient. The Global call to action outlines measures to address the social and economic impacts of the pandemic.

Following a two-week debate on social protection, delegates adopted conclusions outlining a framework for urgent action towards universal, adequate, comprehensive and sustainable social protection systems.

Delegates adopted an emergency resolution on Myanmar, which called for the restoration of democracy and civilian governance, an end to arbitrary detentions and violations of human rights, and the restoration of fundamental principles and rights at work.

The Conference also adopted the report of its Committee on the Application of Standards, which includes conclusions on the application of ILO international labor standards in 19 countries. Among the most common violations is the failure to comply with ILO Convention 87 on the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise.

The ILO Programme and Budget for the 2022-2023 biennium were adopted. Delegates voted to abrogate or withdraw 29 international labor documents concerning seafarers.

The second segment of the 109th session of the ICT, which will take place from 25 November to 11 December 2021, will include thematic discussions on inequalities and the world of work, as well as skills and life-long learning.