Field of agriculture

Agriculture; plantations; other rural sectors

© ILO

Globally, about one billion people work in the agricultural sector, constituting approximately 28 per cent of the employed population. About 450 million are waged workers, many of whom depend on incomes from jobs in the plantation sector. While the share of employment in agriculture has declined in many countries due to technological advancements and economic shifts, it remains a critical sector for livelihoods, food security, and rural development.

However, agriculture workers regularly face high levels of working poverty, food insecurity, poor health and safety  conditions, an lack of labour and social protection. A socially, environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural sector with full, productive and freely chosen employment and decent work at its core is essential for eradicating poverty, tackling inequalities and ending global hunger. Realizing decent work for all workers in the agri-food sector is, therefore, also key to achieving sustainable development and ensuring that no one is left behind, thereby contributing to social justice.

Policy guidelines for the promotion of decent work in the agri-food sector

Policy guidelines for the promotion of decent work in the agri-food sector

This document provides guidance for ILO constituents and other stakeholders engaged in the design and implementation of policies and measures on decent work in the agri-food sector as an essential part of efforts aimed at building sustainable food systems.

News

Tanzania, Brazil and International Labour Organization collaborate to tackle child labour and promote social justice and decent work in Tanzania’s cotton value chain
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Tanzania, Brazil and International Labour Organization collaborate to tackle child labour and promote social justice and decent work in Tanzania’s cotton value chain

Enhancing labour inspection in Kenya through tailored labour inspection tool kits
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Labour inspection tool kit in Kenya

Enhancing labour inspection in Kenya through tailored labour inspection tool kits

Forest work must be made safer and healthier, says new FAO-ILO-UNECE report
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Forest work must be made safer and healthier, says new FAO-ILO-UNECE report

All publications

Occupational safety and health in the future of forestry work

Occupational safety and health in the future of forestry work

Challenges and opportunities to advance decent work in five countries and supply chains: A synthesis report

Challenges and opportunities to advance decent work in five countries and supply chains: A synthesis report

Contribution of the forest sector to total employment in national economies - Estimating the number of people employed in the forest sector

Contribution of the forest sector to total employment in national economies - Estimating the number of people employed in the forest sector