The International Labour Organisation (ILO) was established in the year 1919 on the firm belief that the universal and lasting peace can be established only if it is based upon social justice. Now more than 100 years hav

Answer 2(b) The International Labour Organisation (ILO) was created after taking into account many factors, primarily relating to security, humanitarian, political and economic issues. These have been enshrined in the preamble of the ILO constitution. The socio-political situation at the time of creation of ILO was grossly unjust to an average labourer. There was an ideological understanding amongst all the major industrialized nations that there is a pressing need to create a body which addresses the troubles being faced by the working class. The importance of social justice was felt in securing peace. Along with this, the industrial nations were also toying with the idea of globalisation. The importance of economic interdependence was being propagated and the need for cooperation to maintain an equitable working atmosphere was promulgated in all countries competing for markets. Reflecting these ideas, the Preamble states: Whereas universal and lasting peace can be established only if it is based upon social justice. And whereas conditions of labour exist involving such injustice hardship and privation to large numbers of people as to produce unrest so great that the peace and harmony of the world are imperilled; and an improvement of those conditions is urgently required; Whereas also the failure of any nation to adopt humane conditions of labour is an obstacle in the way of other nations which desire to improve the conditions in their own countries. The areas of improvement listed in the Preamble remain relevant today, for example: Regulation of the hours of work including the establishment of a maximum working day and week; Regulation of labour supply, prevention of unemployment and provision of an adequate living wage; Protection of the worker against sickness, disease and injury arising out of his employment; Protection of children, young persons and women; Provision for old age and injury, protection of the interests of workers when employed in countries other than their own; Recognition of the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value; Recognition of the principle of freedom of association; Organization of vocational and technical education, and other measures. Therefore, the objectives behind the creation of the ILO are still relevant in today's environment.