The International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) published its 2026 report, marking the 100th anniversary of this independent supervisory body. The report assesses how ILO member states implement ratified international labour standards in national law and practice, promoting accountability, consistency, and progress toward social justice and decent work.
The 2026 report highlights Nepal’s application of key international labour conventions, including the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention (No. 98), the Minimum Age Convention (No. 138), the Tripartite Consultation Convention (No. 144), and the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention (No. 182). It urges Nepal to accelerate the elimination of child labour, particularly in hazardous sectors, by strengthening labour inspections, improving data systems, and providing rehabilitation for children affected by bonded labour, trafficking, and exploitation. The Committee acknowledged Nepal’s progress through the National Master Plan on Child Labour (2018–2028), the National Children’s Policy (2024), and enhanced action against trafficking and bonded labour.
On the minimum age for employment, the report encourages further elimination of child labour and alignment of national legislation with international standards, especially in the informal economy. Regarding freedom of association and collective bargaining, the Committee called for stronger legal protections against anti-union discrimination, transparent arbitration processes, and ongoing labour law reforms in consultation with social partners. The report also stresses the importance of effective tripartite dialogue among government, employers, and workers to support law reform and implementation of labour standards.
The Committee encourages Nepal to continue leveraging ILO technical assistance for legislative reform, institutional strengthening, and effective tripartite engagement. Sustained collaboration among government, employers, and workers is essential to translate commitments into measurable improvements in workers’ rights and child protection. The ILO reaffirmed its support to Nepal in strengthening labour rights and eliminating child labour in line with international standards.
The CEACR is composed of 20 independent legal experts who examine how ILO conventions and recommendations are applied by member states. The 2026 report will be submitted to the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference, where governments, employers, and workers will review its findings and discuss implementation strategies.
