Green jobs, social dialogue and participatory governance for sustainable water policy reforms

Abstract

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has developed several activities related to water supply. Among them, the search for ways to transition to a green economy has received much attention. The ILO has also identified the lack of social dialogue within the water utility services as one of the main obstacles to the reforms in water supply around the world. This latter challenge is an important component in the search for better governance which should lead to more efficient and available service. This is because joint, bottom-up planning and implementation of reforms by governments, employers and workers will result in stronger support within the sector and more sustainable reforms. This can be achieved through information sharing, consultation, participation, negotiations and other mechanisms to foster understanding between diverse interests. In order to promote social dialogue, the ILO recommends that labour and employer associations be independent, strong and well-informed. Governments should show the will to recognize and consult with these organizations, and develop mechanisms that work both in law and in practice. For this purpose, the ILO has pursued an Action Programme in Perú, Malawi, Nigeria, and the Philippines. The Action Programme seeks to strengthen social dialogue in the utilities in these countries by establishing steering groups, researching the problems of the sector in each country, and supporting the development of national plans of action. © 2011 WIT Press.