Overview
International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) was established in 2006 through the merger of two global trade union bodies. It represents national trade union centres across more than 160 countries and territories. Its purpose is to promote workers’ rights, democratic values, and social justice within the global economy.ITUC operates as a global voice for organised labour, engaging with governments, employers, and international institutions. Its work is grounded in international labour standards and human rights frameworks.
Mission and focus areas
ITUC’s mission is to defend and advance workers’ rights, including freedom of association, collective bargaining, and safe working conditions. It focuses on addressing inequality, precarious work, forced labour, and discrimination in global supply chains. The organisation also engages on climate change, just transition, and social protection.In relation to sustainable finance and ESG, ITUC contributes labour and human rights perspectives to debates on responsible investment and corporate accountability. Its research and advocacy inform social factors within ESG analysis, particularly on labour rights risks, due diligence, and impacts on workers.
Structure and governance
ITUC is governed by a Congress held every four years, which sets policy priorities and elects leadership. Between congresses, oversight is provided by a General Council and an Executive Bureau. Day-to-day operations are led by a General Secretary and a Secretariat.The organisation works through regional structures, policy departments, and partnerships with global union federations and civil society organisations. It also engages formally with multilateral bodies such as the International Labour Organization.
Programs and offerings
ITUC produces a range of research and advocacy outputs under its own name. Its flagship publication, the Global Rights Index, assesses labour rights conditions worldwide and is widely used by policymakers, investors, and researchers. The organisation also publishes policy briefs, thematic reports, and statements on labour, climate, and economic governance.In addition, ITUC runs global campaigns, supports trade union capacity-building, and provides data and analysis relevant to human rights due diligence and responsible business practices.
The ITUC’s primary mission is the promotion and defence of workers’ rights and interests, through international cooperation between trade unions, global campaigning and advocacy within the major global institutions.
