1. 1919- Following World War I, the need for an international
governmental organization with the ability to coordinate trade
unionization is recognized as necessary to political and social
stability throughout the world. This need is addressed through
the creation of the ILO as an agency of the League of Nations.
1934- The United States famously declined membership in the
League of Nations, but eventually becomes a part of the ILO
during the Great Depression Era. In the midst of difficult
economic conditions, the United States’ involvement in ILO is a
signal to other countries that matters of labor rights demand
global collaboration.
1969- After World War II, the ILO’s budget and membership
grow rapidly, including the addition of more countries from the
developing world. With this change in makeup comes a shift of
focus as the ILO takes on social justice initiatives to promote
peace. The ILO is awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize for its
work reducing poverty and discrimination in the workplace.
1989- The ILO continues its transition from an organization
initially centered around trade unions to an organization
focused on social justice in the international economic sphere.
Michel Hansenne of Belgium takes over the Director-General
position at the ILO following the Cold War, making a strong
push to retain and fortify this new emphasis.
1998- The ILO adopts the Declaration on Fundamental
Principles and Rights at Work to ensure that all member states
abide by certain core principles advocating freedom of
association and collective bargaining, as well as the elimination
of workplace discrimination, forced labor, and child labor.