COVID-19 and the world of work

Country policy responses

For two years, countries have taken unprecedented measures to combat the spread of the disease, and mitigate its effect on the economy and labour market.

Find out the policies implemented between 2020 and 2022 by governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and the ILO in 188 countries and territories aggregated by regions.

How policies are reported

Country policy responses are presented within the four pillars of action defined by the ILO to lessen the impact of COVID-19 on businesses, jobs and the most vulnerable members of society.

Pillar 1: Stimulating the economy and jobs

  • Active fiscal policy
  • Accommodative monetary policy
  • Lending and financial support to specific sectors including the health sector

Pillar 2: Supporting enterprises, employment and incomes

  • Extend social protection for all
  • Implement employment retention measures
  • Provide financial/tax and other relief for enterprises

Pillar 3: Protecting workers in the workplace

  • Strengthen OSH measures
  • Adapt work arrangements (e.g. teleworking)
  • Prevent discrimination and exclusion
  • Provide health access for all
  • Expand access to paid leave

Pillar 4: Using social dialogue between government, workers and employers to find solutions

  • Strengthen the capacity and resilience of employers’ and workers’ organizations
  • Strengthen the capacity of governments
  • Strengthen social dialogue, collective bargaining and labour relations institutions and processes