Freedom of association is a universally recognized and protected human right and a core ILO value enshrined in its Constitution since 1919.

Freedom of association refers to the right of workers and employers to create and join organizations of their choice freely and without fear of reprisal or interference. This includes the right to establish and affiliate to federations, confederations and international organizations. Linked to freedom of association is the right to collective bargaining, which allows workers to negotiate their working conditions freely with their employers. These rights are universal and apply to all workers and employers, including those in the informal economy.

Freedom of association guarantees the ability of workers and employers to defend not only their economic interests but also civil liberties such as the right to life, security, personal and collective freedom. It guarantees protection against discrimination and harassment. As an integral part of democracy and development, freedom of association is also crucial to realizing the other fundamental principles and rights at work.

Nevertheless, there continue to be challenges in applying freedom of association, the right to organize and the right to collective bargaining all over the world. International labour standards set by the ILO, in conjunction with the work of the ILO supervisory bodies, pave the way to overcoming these difficulties and ensuring social justice in the context of globalization.

We provide training and technical assistance concerning freedom of association to meet the needs expressed by the ILO constituents. We also produce training materials to assist public authorities, employers, workers and their organizations to ensure that all voices at work are heard and play a valuable role in promoting economic, social and political development.

For further information, please visit the website of the Standards and Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work Programme.