International Affairs

The Labour Program oversees Canada’s participation in international labour forums, negotiates and promotes respect for international labour standards, negotiates and implements international labour cooperation agreements and cooperation frameworks, particularly in the context of free trade accords, and provides funding for technical assistance to developing countries. These activities are an important component of the Government of Canada’s foreign policy priorities of supporting democratic governance, the rule of law and human rights. Promoting fundamental labour rights internationally directly supports equitable growth and social stability in developing countries, and contributes to reducing the growing global divide between rich and poor.

The Labour Program:

1. Represents Canada in international forums
2. Negotiates and implements innovative international labour agreements in the context of multilateral and bilateral trade initiatives, and
3. Addresses labour exploitation in global supply chains