The convention is the first at the global level that seeks to guarantee the universal right to a world of work free of violence and harassment, and establishes that all actors in the world of work - governments, employers, trade unions and workers - have a leading role in safeguarding a work culture free of violence and based on respect and dignity for everyone.

For a world of work free of violence

The legislative debate in the Chilean Congress - the last instance for its approval, after having been ratified by President Gabriel Boric and endorsed by the Chamber of Deputies - was passionately followed by a large number of women belonging to various trade union and social organizations, both from the public and private sectors, from the stands.

"Thanks to the militant work of the Women's Committee and the unions affiliated to PSI in Chile - and despite the fact that in both chambers the current progressive government of Boric, does not have majorities - this March 8, 2023, the 190th ratification of the ILO was achieved. This important milestone on this significant date encourages us and commits us to continue pushing to make the work for the eradication of all violence and harassment in the world of work a reality in Chilean legislation and public policies," said the vice president of the PSI Inter-American Women's Committee, Carolina Espinoza.

Convention 190: Fundamental Principles

Member States that ratify Convention 190 must respect, promote and ensure the enjoyment of the right of everyone to a world of work free from violence and harassment.

They also commit to adopt an inclusive, integrated and gender-sensitive approach to prevent and eliminate violence and harassment in the world of work, which includes: Legally prohibiting violence and harassment; ensuring that policies address violence and harassment; adopting a comprehensive strategy in order to implement measures to prevent and combat violence and harassment; establishing monitoring and follow-up mechanisms; ensuring that victims have access to redress and support measures; developing awareness-raising activities; and ensuring that there are effective means of inspection of cases of violence and harassment, including through the labor inspectorate or other competent bodies.

The ratification of this convention marks a historic event for Latin America and the world. Convention 190 has been ratified by 25 countries around the world, the penultimate one being Canada, on January 30, 2023.