Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

Migration for Employment Convention (Revised), 1949 (No. 97) - Belgium (Ratification: 1953)

1. The Committee notes the information sent by the Government in its report. It notes the adoption of the Act of 30 April 1999 on the employment of foreign workers which codifies all the existing texts on the subject. It asks the Government to continue to provide information on the application of the above Act and its regulations, distinguishing between the attributions of the "federal" administrative authorities and the "federated" administrative authorities.

2. The Committee asks the Government to continue to provide information on the implementation of its policy on equal treatment for foreign and national workers. It would be grateful if, in particular, the Government would give an account of the impact of the provisions in Chapter V of the Act of 30 April 1999 to improve the means of resisting a refusal or a non renewal of a work permit.

3. In view of the growing feminization of the international migration process, the Committee also would be grateful if the Government would send all available information (reports, studies, statistics, etc.) on endeavours to eliminate discrimination against women migrant workers.

4. In view of the growing role of private recruitment and placement agencies in the development of international migration, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would send information on the manner in which their activities are regulated in practice, recalling the need to protect migrant workers against abuses.

5. Please indicate whether any courts of law or other tribunals have handed down decisions concerning the application of the Convention, particularly on discrimination against foreigners in access to employment. If so, please provide copies of the decisions.