The Government pledges NOK 100 million to promote decent work

Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim signed an agreement today with ILO Director General Juan Somavia pledging NOK 100 million to the International Labour Organisation’s campaign to promote decent work.  

The agreement was signed in connection with the conference “Decent Work – A Key to Social Justice for a Fair Globalisation” in Oslo, where employment creation and promotion of labour rights and standards are on the agenda. 

“All people want a decent job, where their rights are respected and where they can earn enough to support themselves and their families. This is not only important for the individual, it is also good international development policy,” said Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim. 

Norway is now increasing its support to ILO with a view to lifting the campaign to promote decent work to the global arena. NOK 100 million has been allocated for the period 2008-2009.  

“The International Labour Organisation is important both as a political arena and as a partner in efforts to promote a fair globalisation,” said Mr Solheim.

Half of Norway’s contribution will be used to promote gender equality and women’s rights at the workplace, which includes combating forced labour and human trafficking. 

“It is important to empower women by investing in gender equality and decent work for women. The money will also be used to promote the right to organise and to bargain collectively, and to establish labour inspection mechanisms in developing countries,” said Mr Solheim.  

Press contact: Head of Information Trond Viken (MFA), mobile: 992 18 303.