Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1989, published 76th ILC session (1989)

Employment Policy Convention, 1964 (No. 122) - Zambia (Ratification: 1979)

1. Further to its previous comments, the Committee has noted the information in the Government's report, and the policies and objectives laid down in the 1987-88 Interim National Development Plan (INDP). It notes that in May 1987 it was decided to abandon the IMF restructuring programme due to its negative effects on the overall performance of the economy in 1985-86 (involving serious unemployment and underemployment, particularly among the young in urban areas), and the INDP is consequently aimed at formulating a New Economic Recovery Programme based on the country's own resources. The Committee notes with interest the efforts made in co-operation with the ILO's Southern African Team for Employment Promotion (SATEP) to devise policies in line with the Convention's aims of full, productive and freely chosen employment. It notes in particular the emphasis placed on employment in the rural sector under the land settlement and "village service" schemes, based on a "self-help" approach. The Committee hopes the next report will include further information on these and other matters raised in a direct request.

2. Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee notes with interest that the social partners took part in the Employment Committee which has been drawing up employment objectives and strategies for the Fourth National Development Plan. The Government has referred to improving formal consultation of employers and workers through the Industrial Relations Act and promoting participatory democracy: the INDP has also outlined discussion procedures at village and higher levels relating to production targets and their achievement. The Committee hopes these consultations will cover employment policies in terms of the Convention, and that the next report will include further information.