What is ILO? The International Labour Organization (ILO) is the tripartite UN agency that brings together governments, employers and workers of its 183 member states in common action to promote decent work throughout the world. Decent work is captured in four strategic objectives: (1) fundamental principles and rights at work and international labour standards; (2) employment, sustainable enterprises and income opportunities; (3) social protection; (4) social dialogue and tripartite consultations. What does ILO - Brussels do? The ILO Office for the European Union and the Benelux countries represents the International Labour Organization on the one hand to the Benelux countries (Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg) and on the other hand to the institutions of the European Union, in particular the European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee, the Council of Ministers and the European Council. Furthermore it maintains relationships and dialogue with other EU institutions and agencies, with social partners and with a number of important actors in civil society. It also participates in the work of the United Nations in the EU. Gender equality and non discrimination in employment are mainstreamed in these four pillars. These objectives hold for all activities in both formal and informal economies; in wage employment or working on their own account; in the fields, factories and offices; in homework or in the community. The ILO works equally closely with international organizations (with a mandate in the field of commerce, finance, economy, human rights and development) as with regional organizations (such as the EU) to promote an integrated and coherent approach to decent work and fair globalisation. In addition the ILO contributes to the G8 and G20 meetings. ILO and the EU The ILO Office for the European Union and the Benelux countries has worked with the institutions of the European Union since 1958, and this cooperation between the ILO and the EU is growing stronger, both within the EU and outside. All the EU institutions support the promotion of decent work for all as well as reinforcing the social dimension of globalization and the EU is directing its internal and external policies to these ends. The EU actively participates in discussions and negotiations at the institutional meetings of the ILO in Geneva (International Labour Conference, Governing Body), notably on the adoption of Conventions, recommendations, resolutions and other important texts, and in a number of cases, also on monitoring the application of the conventions. The EU played a key role in cooperating closely with emerging economies, developing countries and social partners during the adoption of the Declaration of the ILO on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization of June 2008 and during the adoption of the Consolidated Maritime Convention in February 2006. The ILO equally contributes to issues external to the EU such as cooperation between the EU and other regions, like Asia (through ASEM), Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as cooperation with EuroMed and the Partnership with Eastern Europe. ■ Contact Information ILO Office for the European Union and the Benelux countries Rue Aimé Smekensstraat 40 B-1030 Brussels, Belgium