Maseru, November 21, 2024 – In a significant step towards enhancing the protection of migrant workers, the International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Employment, organized a workshop in Maseru. The event focused on ILO Conventions crucial for migrant workers and was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from workers’ and employers’ organizations, various ministries, and other institutions concerned with migrant workers in Lesotho and those leaving Lesotho for employment abroad.

The primary objective of the workshop was to closely examine the ILO Migration for Employment Convention (Revised), 1949 (No. 97); the ILO Migrant Workers (Supplementary Provisions) Convention, 1975 (No. 143); as well as the ILO Private Employment Agencies Convention, 1997 (No. 181). Ratifications of these conventions are integral to the National Labour Migration Strategy of Lesotho, adopted in 2018, knowing that Lesotho has already ratified all the International labour organisation Fundamental Conventions.

Supported by the ILO through the Southern African Migration Management Project and the FAIR III programme, a comprehensive gap analysis was conducted for these three conventions. This analysis aims to inform the ratification decision-making process by assessing the alignment of domestic laws with the provisions of these conventions, following the ILO’s established methodology.

The discussions in Maseru were particularly dynamic, reflecting recent legislative changes in Lesotho that need to be considered in the gap analysis. The ILO’s methodology not only identifies discrepancies between international standards and national legislation but also provides recommendations on how to address these gaps. A report will be produced based on the workshop, offering concrete recommendations for the ratification of the conventions.

This workshop marks a pivotal moment in Lesotho’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the legal framework for migrant workers, ensuring their rights and protections are upheld in line with international standards.