Austria ratifies Convention No. 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work

© Violaine Martin / ILO

GENEVA (ILO News) – On 11 September 2024, Austria deposited the instrument of ratification of the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019 (No. 190), with the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Convention No. 190 is the first international labour standard to address violence and harassment in the world of work comprehensively. Together with Recommendation No. 206, it establishes a framework for action, fostering a future of work grounded in dignity and respect. These instruments align with the objectives outlined in the ILO Centenary Declaration on the Future of Work, emphasizing a workplace free from violence and harassment, and supporting a human-centered recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.

During the ceremony held at the ILO headquarters in Geneva, the Permanent Representative of Austria to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Désirée Schweitzer, expressed:

 “Austria is pleased to ratify Convention No. 190 on the Elimination of Violence and Harassment in the World of Work. With the adoption of this convention in 2019, the ILO for the first time created a unique global instrument on this important matter. Combating violence in law and practice remains a priority concern for the Austrian government. Together, we must use all available means to ensure that workplaces are free from physical and psychological violence.”

Upon receiving the instrument of ratification for Convention No. 190, ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo stated:

"Austria's ratification of Convention No. 190 highlights its commitment to promoting a world of work free from violence and harassment, built on the principles of dignity, equality, and respect for everyone, ensuring no one is left behind."

To date, Austria has ratified 55 Conventions, of which 44 are in force. For additional details, please refer to NORMLEX.