Debating the future of work: a trail-blazing simulation of an ILO International Labour Conference at the University of Coimbra

Abstract

The International Labour Organization (ILO) will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2019. At the 2015 International Labour Conference (ILC) – the statutory body that each year approves conventions, recommendations and resolutions related to working conditions and industrial relations – ILO Director-General Guy Ryder chose ‘The Future of Work’ (Ryder, 2015) as the major theme for the ILO’s centenary. This was to be based on four main themes/conversations ‘regarded as non-exclusive and indicative’ (p. 9): (i) work and society; (ii) decent jobs for all; (iii) the organisation of work and production; and (iv) the governance of work. Since then, and in accordance with the tripartite spirit of the ILO, numerous debates and reflections on these issues have been taking place at the global, regional and local levels.