Overview

This benchmark series provides an annual, country-level assessment of respect for internationally recognised labour rights by governments and employers. Initiated in 2014, it offers a consistent and comparable framework to assess labour rights conditions across countries and over time.

Purpose

The purpose of this benchmark series is to document and compare the extent to which collective labour rights are protected in law and practice. It is designed to support transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making by providing a standardised view of labour rights environments globally.

Methodology

The methodology combines qualitative inputs from national trade unions with independent legal analysis of national legislation. Reported information is assessed against a defined set of indicators based on international labour standards, covering freedom of association, collective bargaining, and the right to strike. Countries are then assigned ratings that reflect the overall level of protection of these rights.

Use for finance professionals

For finance professionals, this benchmark series can be used to support country risk analysis, ESG integration, and due diligence processes. It provides context on labour rights risks that may affect sovereign exposure, corporate operations, supply chains, and long-term investment assessments.