ILO and ECOT Join Forces to Advance C.190, Elevating Workplace Standards in Thailand toward Safety and Human Dignity

The International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the Employers’ Confederation of Thailand (ECOT), organized a technical workshop on
 “Preventing Violence and Harassment in the Workplace under ILO Convention No. 190 (C.190)”

📅 Thursday, 19 March 2026
 ⏰ 09:00 – 16:30 hrs.
 📍 Dusit Princess Srinakarin Hotel, Bangkok

This forum aimed to deepen understanding of international labour standards and to promote the practical implementation of measures to prevent violence and harassment in the world of work within Thailand’s business sector.

🔎 From Global Standards to Workplace Practice

Participants gained key insights into:

•  The definitions and concepts of “violence and harassment,” covering physical, psychological, sexual, and economic dimensions 
•  The scope of protection, which applies to all workers regardless of employment status 
•  Global trends in advancing labour standards on this issue 

The session was led by Mr. Alain Pelcé, Senior Specialist from the ILO, who provided international perspectives and contextualized them for Thailand.

🏛️ Bridging Thai Legal Frameworks with International Standards

During the session on Thailand’s legal and policy landscape,
 Ms. Pornpawee Thongsomboon and Ms. Pornsuda Jiamphattanakun,
representatives from the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare,

presented an overview of existing labour laws and protection mechanisms in Thailand.

They also highlighted key legal gaps, particularly the current emphasis on specific forms such as sexual harassment, which does not yet fully cover all dimensions of workplace violence and harassment.

These insights provided valuable guidance for businesses in aligning with international standards moving forward.

🧑‍💼 Employers’ Role: A Key Driver of Safe Workplaces

Ms. Siriwan Romchatthong, Secretary-General of ECOT, emphasized that:
 “Employers play a critical role in fostering a workplace culture that adopts a Zero Tolerance policy toward violence and harassment.”

Key approaches include:

•  Establishing clear organizational policies 
•  Implementing safe and fair grievance mechanisms 
•  Promoting awareness and training at all levels 

These measures form an integral part of occupational safety and health (OSH) risk management systems.

🤝 From Dialogue to Policy Recommendations

In the afternoon session, participants from various industries engaged in group discussions to:

•  Identify workplace-specific risks and challenges 
•  Develop employer-driven policy recommendations 
•  Propose areas where government support is needed 

The outcomes will contribute to broader policy development and national-level discussions in Thailand.

🌍 Advancing Decent Work for Thailand’s Future

This event reflects the strong collaboration between ILO and ECOT in promoting the concept of “Decent Work.”

It encourages Thai enterprises to develop workplaces that are:
 ✔ Safe
 ✔ Respectful of human dignity
 ✔ Free from violence and harassment

Ultimately, this contributes to improved worker well-being and enhances the country’s long-term economic competitiveness.

✨ A safe and respectful workplace is no longer optional—it is the new standard for sustainable organizations.