The Regional Office, based at ILO Headquarters in Geneva, maintains overall responsibility for the ILO's presence and activities in the region (see Geographical Competence). It takes the lead in defining programme priorities and activities, monitoring programme delivery, and providing support and coordination to its field structure.

Sub Regional offices

Under the responsibility of the ILO Subregional Office in Budapest are the Central and Eastern European countries (including Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova).

Under the responsibility of the ILO Subregional Office in Moscow are the CIS countries (with the exception of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova).

The assistance provided by both Subregional Offices is largely based on technical advisory services, covering both policy and practical issues. The Subregional Offices are also playing a leading role in the implementation of several important technical cooperation projects.

The overarching objective of ILO assistance to all these countries is to anchor decent work firmly as a national goal and to contribute to its implementation through the Decent Work Country Programmes.

Country offices

Under the direct responsibility of the Regional Office are the Western-European countries, including Cyprus, Malta, Israel and Turkey. The ILO has an Office in Brussels for the European Union and the Benelux countries and a network of Offices in Ankara, Berlin, Lisbon, Madrid, Paris and Rome (also covering San Marino and the relations with the Holy See, which has an Observer's status). The United Kingdom and Ireland are serviced by a Liaison officer located in the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia.

National coordinators

Within the ILO, the system of National Coordinators is unique to the European region and, in some cases, dates back many years. They function as antennae and ensure that the Office is kept informed of national developments. They play an active role in technical cooperation activities at the national level.

ILO presence in Europe and Central Asia