Social dialogue and tripartism

Effective social dialogue between governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations is key for advancing social justice, inclusive economic growth, improved wages and working conditions, and sustainable enterprises. As a tool of good governance, social dialogue creates conditions conducive to achieving decent work for all. It directly influences social peace, stability, and the overall governance of labour markets and economies.

Social dialogue plays a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 10 (reducing inequalities), and SDG 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions).

Social dialogue includes:

• Negotiation, consultation and information exchange between and among governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations;
• Collective bargaining between employers/employers’ organizations and workers’ organizations;
• Dispute prevention and resolution; and
• Other approaches such as workplace cooperation, international framework agreements and social dialogue in the context of regional economic communities.

Preconditions for effective social dialogue:

• Strong, independent and representative employers' and workers’ organizations with the technical capacity to participate in social dialogue and access to relevant information;
• Respect for the fundamental rights of freedom of association and effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining; 
• Political will, trust and commitment to engage in good faith in social dialogue by all the parties; and
• An enabling legal and institutional framework.

There is no “one size fits all” model of social dialogue that can be readily exported from one context to another; rather, it encompasses diverse global experiences and practices. Adapting social dialogue to specific contexts is crucial for ensuring full ownership by the parties involved and sustainability of the process. While practices vary between countries, ensuring freedom of association and effectively recognizing the right to collective bargaining are fundamental preconditions for effective social dialogue in any national context.

The ILO supports Member States and constituents in enhancing their capacity to advocate for and promote effective and inclusive social dialogue and tripartism at all levels. We are committed to promoting the democratic involvement of key stakeholders in the governance of the world of work. 

For more information or to reach out to our team and global network of experts, please contact us at [email protected].