CARE supported adoption of the ILO Convention on Violence and Harassment, a global law focused on preventing violence and harassment in the workplace. We work to encourage countries to ratify the convention and ensure national laws protect women workers.

ILO Convention on Violence and Harassment

Women in low-paying or insecure jobs face the greatest risks. They’re more exposed to abuse and often lack protection even while their families rely on their income for support.

Globally, as many as 1 in 3 three women experience violence and harassment. In industries where women in the majority, such as garment manufacturing, the risk is even higher.

In June 2019, CARE supported the adoption of the Convention on Violence and Harassment at the International Labour Conference. This was the first international law of its kind, focused specifically on preventing violence and harassment in the world of work.

Once this Convention is written into national laws, it will millions of women around the world to:

  • Speak out about abuse
  • Push employers to act, and
  • Hold perpetrators accountable

Learn more about the Convention on CARE Insights

Our influence

CARE builds alliances and supports campaigns with civil society and trade union partners in countries around the world. In several countries, our efforts have influenced support for the Convention among governments, workers, and employers.

Learn how CARE’s engagement has helped influence government policy

See the impact of CARE’s engagement with workers, employers and government representatives in Pakistan.

 

Ongoing advocacy

Passing Convention 190 was only the first step. Now, we work at national level to support ratification and help countries align their laws with the new global standards.

CARE collaborates with key partners—including ActionAid, International Trade Union Confederation-Asia Pacific (ITUC-AP) and International Women’s Rights Action Watch-Asia Pacific (IWRAW-AP)—to keep building momentum. Together, we:

  • Raise awareness
  • Share tools and resources, and
  • Amplify the voices of women workers across Asia.

These efforts national-level organizations, helping them share strategies and build powerful movements for legal change.

Resources

Preventing Violence and Harassment at Work - Full Report

An exploration of the prevalence and productivity cost of sexual harassment Cambodian garment industry.

Download the PDF

What Works? Reducing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

A rapid review of evidence and recommendations intended to provide principles to guide responses and prevention.

Download the PDF