LABOUR RIGHTS AND CHALLENGES IN A DYNAMIC EMPLOYMENT: FACILITATING REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT

AUTHOR – M. AZIMATHUL MARSHIYA, STUDENT AT LL.M BRANCH: LABOUR AND ADMINISTRATIVE LAW, CHENNAI DR. AMBEDKAR GOVT. LAW COLLEGE, PATTARAIPERUMBUDUR, THIRUVALLUR – 631203

BEST CITATION – M. AZIMATHUL MARSHIYA, LABOUR RIGHTS AND CHALLENGES IN A DYNAMIC EMPLOYMENT: FACILITATING REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 4 (2) OF 2024, PG. 1528-1534, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344

ABSTRACT

Workers play an important role in bringing the visionary ideas of innovators to life. The Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work by the International Labour Organization (ILO) establishes essential labour rights, fostering a joint responsibility between member states and the ILO.  These rights are universally applicable, ensuring fair working conditions and treatment for all workers. They cover fair pay, workplace safety, the right to join unions, and protection against discrimination and exploitation. Additionally, they include Freedom of Association, Collective Bargaining, the Elimination of Forced Labour and Child Labour, and the Eradication of Employment Discrimination. Labour rights are the basic human rights which cannot be violated.

Despite these global rights, challenges persist. Informal employment, weak enforcement, and issues in global supply chains often lead to poor working conditions, especially in developing countries. In India, labour rights face significant hurdles despite extensive legal frameworks. The large informal sector, employing a substantial part of the workforce, frequently operates outside regulations, leading to labour welfare issues such as low pay, unsafe conditions, gender discrimination, poor industrial relations and a lack of social protection. Ineffective enforcement, monitoring, inadequate training and compliance mechanisms exacerbate the situation, allowing violations to persist. Advancements in automation and AI are challenging the labour force by displacing jobs, heightening job insecurity, and causing economic stress for workers.

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach. Strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing monitoring and compliance, improving enforcement and ensuring workers’ participation are essential steps. International Co-operation is also essential in upholding labour standards and protecting workers’ rights. Implementing these strategies will create a fair, safe, and equitable work environment for all workers, safeguarding their well-being and respecting their contributions to innovation and economic progress.

Keywords: Labour rights, International cooperation, compliance, legal frameworks, informal employment