The International Training Centre of the International Labour Organization (ITCILO) and the Association of Professional Social Compliance Auditors (APSCA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration on capacity development, knowledge exchange, and training in the areas of labour rights and responsible business conduct that contribute to the promotion of decent work and respect for human rights throughout global supply chains.

The MoU establishes a framework for joint initiatives, including collaboration on training activities and the promotion of ITC-ILO’s established programmes to APSCA members, the exchange of technical expertise and good practices, and enhanced communication and outreach efforts. The collaboration also foresees the promotion of high-quality professional training opportunities for social auditors.

As a first concrete outcome of the partnership, ITCILO and APSCA will launch a new edition of the course Decent Work Essentials for Social Auditors: Purpose and Practice. The course is designed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of social auditors and supply chain professionals, enabling them to assess labour conditions in line with International Labour Standards (ILS) and to support responsible business conduct across complex, multi-tier supply chains.

The course combines a strong normative foundation based on ILS with practical tools, real-world case studies, and opportunities for peer exchange, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the role of social auditing in advancing labour rights and improving working conditions. APSCA members will be encouraged to participate in the course as part of their Continuous Professional Development (CPD).

Through this joint effort, ITCILO reinforces its mandate as the ILO’s capacity development arm, supporting constituents, professionals, and institutions in building the skills and knowledge needed to promote decent work and respect for human rights in global supply chains.