The International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a new report examining the current state of social dialogue and labour relations in Latin America and the Caribbean. Titled Social Dialogue and Labour Relations 2025, the publication offers a broad overview of advances, challenges, and tripartite experiences in the region. It compiles practical examples that strengthen institutions, prevent labour conflicts, and promote a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world of work.
The report stems from the Regional Initiative for the Strengthening of Social Dialogue and Labour Relations (IRDS), created in 2024 at the request of the Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC) of ILO Member States. Its purpose is to provide governments, employers, and workers with strategic and technical guidance to address ongoing challenges in the labour sector, such as low collective bargaining coverage and widespread informality.
The ILO emphasizes that social dialogue is not only a mechanism for resolving workplace disputes but also a cornerstone for building peace, trust, and social cohesion. The report documents how countries across the region have developed institutions such as economic and social councils, labour councils, wage councils, occupational safety and health councils, and conflict resolution commissions to advance dialogue and improve governance.
However, the study also highlights significant obstacles that continue to weaken labour relations. These include low levels of unionization, fragmentation within employer representation, and the need to safeguard fundamental conditions such as freedom of association and respect for collective bargaining rights.
Among its contributions, the publication maps existing tripartite institutions across Latin America and the Caribbean, showcases successful national practices, examines the role of social dialogue in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, and provides recommendations for reinforcing labour governance and participation.
The ILO calls on all tripartite constituents to use the report as a reference point for strengthening sustainable social dialogue processes. By doing so, the organization argues, countries in the region can move closer to achieving decent work, greater social justice, and more resilient labour systems.
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