Social dialogue is an end in itself, a pillar of democracy. It is also a means for designing, implementing and monitoring sustainable policies, strategies and programmes in all economic, social and labour fields.

There can be no effective social dialogue without strong, independent and capable partners. Labour administrations, workers' organizations and employers' organizations should be equipped with the capacity to participate fully in social dialogue.

In close cooperation with the ILO Department on Social Dialogue and specialists in the field, the ITC-ILO’s Social Dialogue, Labour Law and Labour Administration Programme offers capacity-building programmes in several areas.

Courses on social dialogue familiarize participants with the full range of approaches. Specific tailor-made courses, country-based or with a regional focus, help tripartite national councils to develop their own strategies and plans. Courses on labour conflict prevention and resolution strengthen the skills of negotiators and mediators.