The International Labour Organization (ILO) has introduced a new performance framework aimed at helping governments strengthen labour administration systems and respond to the evolving world of work.
Developed in collaboration with labour ministries across various regions and legal systems, the framework provides practical indicators to assess the effectiveness and impact of national labour institutions.
According to the ILO, the tool translates the UN Principles of Effective Governance into measurable indicators under three sections:
The organisation noted that labour administrations play a vital role in ensuring fair treatment of workers, establishing predictable frameworks for employers, and maintaining trust through social dialogue — all in line with international labour standards.
However, it observed that these systems face mounting pressure from rapid technological, demographic and economic shifts.
“The new indicators are designed to help senior leaders identify governance gaps, manage risks, and align national labour systems with international standards,” the ILO said. “They are not meant for cross-country comparison but to support internal evaluation and reform.”
The framework’s flexible design allows adaptation to different national contexts, and the ILO will provide technical assistance to help member states implement it.
The initiative forms part of the organisation’s broader effort to promote inclusive, transparent and effective labour governance globally.
