The Role of the International Labour Organization in Women’s Economic Empowerment: An Analysis of Policies and Initiatives

Abstract

The research examines the role of the International Labour Organization in economically empowering women by analyzing its policies and international standards, particularly labor conventions concerning equality and non-discrimination, equal pay, maternity protection, and decent work , and highlights the Organization’s initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s participation in the labor market, improving access to productive employment, entrepreneurship, and social protection , It also discusses the Organization’s implementation tools, such as capacity building, technical support, and partnership programs with governments, employers, and civil society organizations, as well as its role in reducing the gender pay gap, curbing informal employment, and promoting safe working environments. It concludes that the policies and initiatives of the International Labour Organization have made a tangible contribution to improving women’s economic empowerment, while emphasizing that the effectiveness of these efforts depends on the extent to which states are committed to implementing international standards and aligning them with national contexts.