Message by Juan Somavia, Director-General of the International Labour Office, on the occasion of World Day for Safety and Health at Work, 28 April 2008

Labour is not a commodity and markets must serve people. Nearly 90 years ago the protection of workers’ lives and health was set out as a key objective in the founding charter of the Organization. Today, rapid technological change and a fast-paced and globalized economy bring new challenges and pressures for all areas of the world of work. Safety and health remain integral elements of the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda.