This Handbook describes the procedures operating within the International Labour Organization in relation to the adoption and implementation of Conventions and Recommendations. The present edition takes account of the adjustments to the system for the supervision of international labour standards decided on by the Governing Body of the International Labour Office up to its March 2003 session. (Endnote_1)
The Handbook is designed in the first place to help officials of national administrations responsible within their governments for the discharge of obligations under the ILO Constitution relating to international labour standards, by setting out the provisions laying down the procedures to follow and the practice established within the Organization for giving effect to those provisions. It is also intended for use by organizations of workers and employers, which have their own distinct roles to play in the procedures. The International Labour Office's functions include that of providing information and training for officials of governments and employers' and workers' organizations on all aspects of the procedures described in this Handbook. This is done in part through seminars held in the various regions, at ILO headquarters in Geneva, at the ILO's International Training Centre in Turin (Italy), and in members States, as well as through informal advisory missions carried out by officials of the International Labour Standards Department and the standards specialists in the field. The Office is in any event at the disposal of the governments and organizations for further explanations of any of the matters dealt with here. This Handbook is issued and further assistance and advice are given by the International Labour Office on the understanding that the Office has no special authority under the ILO Constitution to give interpretations of the Constitution or instruments adopted by the Conference. Appendix I to this Handbook consists of a calendar of action called for on international labour standards. Appendix II lists available documentation on ILO Conventions and Recommendations. Appendix III gives the short titles of all Conventions on which reports may be requested as indicated in the table.
See document GB.283/LILS/6