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Decent Work: A Pillar of Social Justice and Economic Sustainability

Exploring the Concept and Its Relevance Today

Decent Work: A Pillar of Social Justice and Economic Sustainability

  • 04 Mar, 2025
  • 329

What is Decent Work?

Decent work signifies employment opportunities that uphold the fundamental rights of individuals while adhering to workers' rights. It encompasses several essential elements, including fair income, safe working conditions, protection of physical and mental health, and social security for workers and their families.

The Origin of the Term

The term "decent work" was introduced by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 1999. This concept aims to promote dignified employment for all individuals worldwide.

Importance of Decent Work

Decent work is vital for various reasons. It plays a crucial role in promoting social inclusion, reducing poverty, driving economic growth, and ensuring environmental sustainability. Furthermore, decent work contributes significantly to the overall well-being of individuals and society.

Decent Work in Global Context

Yes, decent work is an essential element of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This agenda acknowledges the importance of decent work in achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth across nations.

World Day for Decent Work

The World Day for Decent Work is celebrated annually on October 7th. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of decent work and advocating for workers' rights globally.

Decent Work and the Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution supports the concept of decent work through its Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP). These principles guide the State in promoting social and economic justice, aligning with the values of decent work. Relevant articles include:

  • Article 39(a): "That the citizens, men and women equally, have the right to an adequate means of livelihood."
  • Article 41: "The State shall, within the limits of its economic capacity and development, make effective provision for securing the right to work..."
  • Article 42: "The State shall make provision for securing just and humane conditions of work..."
  • Article 43: "The State shall endeavour to secure... a living wage, conditions of work ensuring a decent standard of life..."

These principles emphasize India's commitment to creating conditions that support decent work for all its citizens, ensuring their rights and welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is decent work?
Answer: Decent work refers to employment that respects individual rights, offering fair income, safe working conditions, and social security for workers and their families.

Q2. Who coined the term "decent work"?
Answer: The term "decent work" was coined by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 1999 to promote dignified employment for all.

Q3. Why is decent work important?
Answer: Decent work is essential for promoting social inclusion, reducing poverty, and ensuring economic growth, contributing to the well-being of society.

Q4. What is the significance of the World Day for Decent Work?
Answer: Observed on October 7th, the World Day for Decent Work highlights the importance of workers' rights and advocates for decent work conditions globally.

Q5. How does the Indian Constitution support decent work?
Answer: The Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution guide the State in promoting social justice, ensuring adequate livelihood, and humane working conditions.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does decent work signify?
A) Employment opportunities that violate rights
B) Employment opportunities that respect individual rights
C) Employment opportunities with low wages
D) Employment opportunities with no safety measures
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Who introduced the term "decent work"?
A) United Nations
B) International Labour Organization
C) World Health Organization
D) International Monetary Fund
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: When is the World Day for Decent Work observed?
A) October 1
B) October 7
C) December 10
D) January 1
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which article of the Indian Constitution mentions the right to work?
A) Article 39
B) Article 41
C) Article 42
D) Article 43
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is a key component of the UN's 2030 Agenda?
A) Economic inequality
B) Decent work
C) Climate change
D) Population control
Correct Answer: B

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