The International Labour Organization
The oldest UN agency, born with the League of Nations in 1919, where three groups from each country all vote.
What the paper can ask
- Founded 1919 under the Treaty of Versailles; headquarters Geneva; 187 member states.
- Director-General: Gilbert F. Houngbo, the 11th DG, in office since October 2022. (as of 23 Oct 2026)
- It is the only major international body where non-government delegates vote alongside governments.
Why exams ask
Setters ask who the three parties in 'tripartite' are, its founding year and treaty, and its city.
The full story
The International Labour Organization (ILO) was founded in 1919 under the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I, and became the first specialised agency of the UN. It sets labour standards through conventions and recommendations. It is unique for its tripartite structure: every member country is represented by three groups who all take part in decisions. It is headquartered in Geneva and has 187 member states.
Test yourself
1.The International Labour Organization is distinctive for its tripartite structure. Which groups are represented?
Correct. The ILO's bodies include representatives of governments, employers and workers.
Not quite. The ILO's bodies include representatives of governments, employers and workers. It goes into your error book.