On 14 April 2022, San Marino ratified the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190). This makes San Marino the 12th country globally and the 4th in Europe to ratify this significant international labour standard. The ratification instrument was deposited with the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), marking an important milestone.
Convention No. 190 is a groundbreaking international labour standard. It addresses violence and harassment in the workplace, including gender-based violence. Along with Recommendation No. 206, it offers a framework for creating a future of work based on dignity and respect. These instruments are crucial for achieving the goals set by the ILO Centenary Declaration for the Future of Work, adopted in 2019.
The ILO’s Global Call to Action for a human-centred recovery from the COVID-19 crisis highlights the importance of this Convention. It emphasizes the need for an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient approach to recovery. The Convention plays a key role in ensuring a safe and respectful workplace, especially in the post-pandemic world.
The Convention states that everyone has the right to a workplace free from violence and harassment. It provides the first internationally agreed definition of workplace violence and harassment. This includes behaviors that cause physical, psychological, sexual, or economic harm. The definition protects all workers, including interns, apprentices, and those with employer duties, across all sectors and economies.
Ratifying countries must adopt a comprehensive approach to prevent and eliminate workplace violence and harassment. This involves measures for prevention, protection, enforcement, and remedies, along with guidance, training, and awareness-raising. The Convention emphasizes the collaborative roles of governments, employers, and workers in addressing this issue.
At the ratification ceremony in Geneva, San Marino’s Minister of Labour, Mr. Teodoro Lonfernini, reaffirmed the commitment to combating workplace violence and harassment. He stated that the government, trade unions, and employers’ associations are working together to create a Multiannual National Plan. This plan aims to eliminate violence, harassment, and gender discrimination in the workplace.
ILO Director-General, Mr. Guy Ryder, accepted the ratification instrument. He highlighted the Convention’s increased relevance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has underscored the need for stronger actions against workplace violence and harassment, especially for women and vulnerable groups. Mr. Ryder affirmed that San Marino’s ratification demonstrates a strong commitment to human rights, decent work, and social justice for all.
In conclusion, San Marino’s ratification of Convention No. 190 is a significant step forward. It sets a positive example for other nations and reinforces the global commitment to eliminating workplace violence and harassment.
