Promoting fundamental principles &  rights at work and social dialogue

The project develops “tripartism,” that is it promotes communication among business, labor and government representatives needed to maintain effective industrial relations.  In addition, the project promotes labor reforms.

Bahrain

August 2006 – February 2008

Total - $150,000

Bahrain has only recently developed legislation and policy that provides for free association and collective bargaining.  Tripartism as a labor mediating function does not exist.  However, as labor problems emerge, there is a compelling need to develop effective social dialogue among workers, employer and the government in order to mitigate labor unrest.

Worker and employer associations and the Ministry of Labor.  

• Develop a functioning tripartite system; and
• Develop legislative and administrative frameworks that reflect the ILO Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and promote and strengthen social dialogue.

1. A series of seminars with the trade unions on the role, functions, responsibilities and internal organization of modern trade unions. 
2. A series of seminars for employers and their organizations to build awareness and support for practice of dialogue, with a view to modernizing the economy and resolving labor market problems.
3. A series of seminars for workers, employers, government and members of parliament, academics, and other relevant persons and organizations to explain the functioning of a tripartite labor system, raise the understanding of the CLS and the Declaration, explain methods for giving effect to core international labor standards, and promote social dialogue.
4. A tripartite analysis and set of recommendations regarding the structure and scope of national social dialogue.

Executing Agency
International Labor Organization

August 2007