ILO releases new guide to promote diversity, inclusion at workplace

To mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Dec. 3, the International Labour Organization (ILO) on Wednesday released a new guide on how and when to provide workplace adjustments for workers with specific needs.

The new guide, which gives practical guidance on promoting diversity and inclusion, highlights that while all workers should enjoy equal access to employment, some face barriers that may put them at a disadvantage. Such barriers can prevent them from accessing or remaining in employment and, if not addressed, can also deprive companies of a broader, more diverse pool of workers from which to recruit.

The guide focuses on four specific categories of workers: workers with disabilities, workers living with HIV, workers with family responsibilities, and workers with a particular religion or belief.

It outlines a "reasonable accommodation" of workers: providing one or more modifications that are appropriate and necessary to accommodate a worker or job candidate's individual characteristics so that he or she may enjoy the same rights as others.

"Reasonable adjustments contribute to harnessing the full professional potential of workers and thereby to business success," said Shauna Olney, chief of ILO's gender, equality and diversity branch.

ILO said taking effective measures for the inclusion of all workers in the workplace is essential for the promotion of equality and to ensure that the rights and protection contained in the International Labour Standards are a reality for all. Endit