International labour migration poses specific challenges for buyers and employers concerned about the rights of all workers in their supply chain and workforce, including migrant workers. Migrant workers are more vulnerable to violations of their fundamental rights, concerning forced labour, child labour, non-discrimination and equal treatment and freedom of association and collective bargaining and are more likely to work excessive hours, under unsafe conditions and be paid less than the legal minimum. Employers of migrant workers may face legal obstacles in respecting the rights of migrant workers; for instance, in many countries migrant workers are prohibited by law from joining a trade union. At the same time, there are plenty of opportunities for businesses and employers to positively impact the broader debate on international migration and integrate migrant workers into their operations or worksites in ways that are humane, equitable, sustainable and truly add value to societies and businesses.

The first webinar - facilitated by experts of the ILO’s Labour Migration Programme - will introduce participants to the main migration for employment trends as well as the international legal and policy framework that guides international labour migration policies and will also discuss the role of the private sector and employers’ representatives in contributing to the formulation of sound labour migration policies.

The second webinar - facilitated by experts of the ILO’s Labour Migration Programme - will provide practical guidance on how businesses and employers can address the many challenges related to international labour migration and provide meaningful support to migrant workers in line with the Global Compact Labour Principles and the relevant international standards of the ILO. Participants will be presented the “business case” for promoting migrants’ rights as well as examples of good practices and initiatives undertaken by members of the business community to inspire them to similar action and engagement on the issue.

Practical information

Webinar part 1: Monday 11 February 2013 - 3:30 PM CET – 9:30 AM EST

Webinar part 2: Friday 1 March 2013 – 3:30 PM CET – 9:30 AM EST

Participation in the webinar is free, but registration is required. Please register via : http://www.unglobalcompact.org/Issues/Labour/webinar_series.html You will receive a confirmation message together with the instructions for webinar participation.