EXPLORING POSSIBLE WAYS OF RAISING AWARENESS OF THE ILO CONVENTIONS ON FAIR LABOUR PRACTICES IN THE WORKPLACE

Abstract The International Labour Organisation (ILO) aimed at improving conditions of work of employees across the globe. Secondly, it is important to acknowledge that the ILO is an organisation with a tripartite structure. In contrast to the United Nation based organisations that engage a limited number of state representatives, the ILO encompasses representatives of governments, employers’ associations, and workers’ unions as key players at all levels of decision-making. This article aimed at exploring different ways in which South African government can raise awareness around ILO Conventions in relation to fair labour practices in the workplace. The study employed a qualitative phenomenological research approach grounded in an interpretive paradigm. Ten participants from two South African organisations in Johannesburg were interviewed. The findings indicated that there is little awareness regarding the ILO and its purpose or contributions in building the South African Labour Relations Therefore, a potential first step in addressing these issues could be the establishment of an HR department. Building upon these findings, the study suggests that employers engage employees in the development of employment policies and procedures to promote fairness within organisations. Furthermore, South African organisations should be made more aware of the ILO conventions. Additionally, the study recommends the regular review and revision of policies to ensure alignment with legislative and societal changes. Finally, training and development should be prioritised in the organisation to minimise non-compliance.