Jerry Mathema
This course examines the history and development of labour administration, tracing its origins in the Industrial Revolution to its modern role in shaping fair and equitable work conditions worldwide. It explores the evolution of employer-employee relationships, the establishment of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the key international standards that have influenced labour administration systems globally.
Through five engaging and interactive self-guided lessons, the course explores the functions of labour administration, the legal frameworks that govern it, and its critical role in promoting social justice and decent work. By the end of the course, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of labour administration and are equipped to reflect on its future challenges and opportunities.
OBJECTIVES
By the end of this course participants had opportunity to:
Explain the historical development of labour administration, tracing its origins to the Industrial Revolution and the shift from feudal master-servant dynamics to modern employer-employee relationships.
Explore the creation of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and analyse the key historical motivations and documents that laid the foundations for international labour standards and the institutional architecture of national labour systems.
Interpret the international labour standards in the field of labour administration, focusing on their systemic approach and the principles that guide the regulation and implementation of labour policies across national contexts.
Identify the key roles and functions of modern labour administrations, including responsibilities related to employment, social security, and labour rights, while exploring the challenges associated with developing and implementing national labour policies.
Reflect on the evolving role of the State in promoting fundamental labour rights and the partnership between labour administrations and the ILO in addressing current challenges such as global crises, economic downturns, and the need for transparent and accountable governance.
CONTENT
Lesson 1. Emergence and evolution of labour administration
Lesson 2. Impact of the creation of the International Labour Organization (ILO)
Lesson 3. International legal framework: a systemic approach to labour administration
Lesson 4. Key features of labour administration: mandate, role and functions
Lesson 5. The role of labour administration in achieving social justice and decent work