World Health Organisation (WHO) says labour rights protection in work places is very crucial in this Covid-19 pandemic.
In a statement yesterday, WHO said workers’ health and safety and also access to decent work is important in industries.
“In the COVID-19 crisis food security, public health, and employment and labour issues, in particular workers’ health and safety, converge. Adhering to workplace safety and health practices and ensuring access to decent work and the protection of labour rights in all industries will be crucial in addressing the human dimension of the crisis.” They said.
WHO called on social protection and income support to workers in the informal economy.
“Immediate and purposeful action to save lives and livelihoods should include extending social protection towards universal health coverage and income support for those most affected. These include workers in the informal economy and in poorly protected and low-paid jobs, including youth, older workers, and migrants.” said WHO.
Meanwhile, WHO urged governments around the world to work closely with employers and workers in this Covid- 19 pandemic.
“Particular attention must be paid to the situation of women, who are over-represented in low-paid jobs and care roles. Different forms of support are key, including cash transfers, child allowances and healthy school meals, shelter and food relief initiatives, support for employment retention and recovery, and financial relief for businesses, including micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.
“In designing and implementing such measures it is essential that governments work closely with employers and workers.” WHO said.
