The twentieth century saw the development of a framework of social dialogue, norms and institutions for regulating work, including international labour standards, labour inspection systems, workplace representation, specialist labour courts and tribunals. At the same time, these norms and institutions, which are well-suited to formal, stable and straightforward employment relationships, have thus far achieved only limited effective coverage in many emerging and developing economies. They are now increasingly under pressure in the developed world.

How can societies respond to the erosion of the established regulatory framework? Do we need new or different governance structures to regulate work effectively? This session examines initiatives that revitalise existing norms and institutions and/or create new forms of regulation that may help to meet present and future governance challenges. The session focuses on both international and national initiatives, highlighting those that strengthen tripartism. Participants will address State-based forms of governance (such as national laws and public enforcement agencies) as well as innovations emerging from the social partners and other members of civil society (including new forms of collective organization and action), as well as the evolving relationship between public and private governance.