Labor

Respect for internationally recognized worker rights in emerging markets and developing countries is vital for achieving sustainable development and reducing poverty. Infrastructure projects require numerous workers, resulting in the need for sound labor management. Policies for addressing workplace issues can have a major impact on a project's economic performance, enhance a project’s/company’s public image, strengthen its relations with government regulatory authorities and civil society groups, and enhance its ability to foster and maintain social capital and promote the economic and social welfare of local populations that might depend on the project for their livelihoods. Labor management systems for infrastructure projects should respect and protect fundamental labor rights, including the rights set forth in all agreements to which a given country is a party, comply with country laws, and strive to structure policies and practices to meet core labor rights expressed in the International Labor Organization Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. Key labor aspects in infrastructure projects include: promote the fair treatment, non-discrimination and equal opportunity of project workers; protect project workers, including vulnerable categories of workers such as women, children and migrant workers; avoid the use of forced and child labor; provide adequate conditions of employment, work conditions and social security; and adequate road transportation.