BSR Insight | How Freedom of Association Supports Economic Development
The International Labour Organization’s new report outlines how freedom of association—the right to create and join organizations without fear of reprisal—supports sustainable economic development. The report explores the challenges to freedom of association; provides case studies on the positive effects it can have when governments, employers’ organizations, and trade unions work together; and shares how these actors can promote respect for freedom of association.
According to the authors, freedom of association contributes to economic development through four focus areas:
- Inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction: Open dialogue between trade unions and employer organizations can ensure that government policies and programs support economic development.
- Positive business environment: Cooperation between trade unions and employers supports competitiveness and business performance.
- Crisis response: Dialogue among governments, employers, and trade unions strengthens and consolidates responses to crisis.
- Governance and accountability: Freedom of association allows strong democracies to balance competing interests.
Topics
Civil & Political Rights, Economic Development, Economic, Social & Cultural Rights, Human Rights, Stakeholder Relations
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