Social dialogue and tripartism

Effective social dialogue between governments, employers and workers’ organizations is essential for advancing social justice, fostering inclusive economic growth, improving wages and working conditions, and supporting sustainable enterprises. As a cornerstone of good governance, social dialogue creates the conditions necessary to achieve decent work for all while promoting social peace, stability, and effective labour market governance.

Social dialogue is instrumental in achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

• SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth
• SDG 10: Reduced inequalities
• SDG 16: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

What is social dialogue?

Social dialogue includes all types of negotiation, consultation and exchange of information between or among representatives of governments, employers and workers on issues of common interest relating to economic and social policy. 

Social dialogue is both a means to achieve social and economic progress and an end in itself, as it gives people a voice and a stake in their societies and workplaces. Central to the ILO’s mission, social dialogue is embedded in nearly all ILO Conventions and Recommendations and in the Decent Work Agenda. Many of these instruments explicitly require governments to ensure consultations with the social partners.

There is no universal model for social dialogue. Its success depends on adapting to the specific contexts of different countries, reflecting their unique needs and ensuring full ownership by the parties involved. While approaches may vary, the foundation of effective social dialogue rests on respecting, promoting and realizing the fundamental principles and rights at work, particularly freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining. 

For more information or to reach out to our team and global network of experts, please contact the ILO’s Social Dialogue, Labour Relations and Governance of Work Branch (LABGOV) at [email protected].