Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2007, published 97th ILC session (2008)

Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) - Colombia (Ratification: 1969)

1. The Committee takes note of the communication from the Single Confederation of Workers (CUT). In that communication, the CUT states, as the most representative organization, that as at 15 August 2007 it had not received a copy of the Government’s report and was therefore sending its comments without having seen the report, reserving the right to expand on them upon receiving it. The Committee notes that in its report sent on 25 July 2007, the Government states that it is forwarding a copy to the CUT among other organizations. The Committee will examine the communication together with the comments the Government may wish to make. The Committee notes that the CUT indicates that the Judiciary has difficulties in applying the Convention although under the Constitution, it is directly applicable; the cut proposes that judges and administrative officials receive training to further their knowledge of the international treaties to which Colombia is a party. In its report, the Government refers to proposals to improve application of the Convention in the judicial system as part of the Strategic Plan for the defence of women’s rights before the law in Colombia. The Committee accordingly invites the Government to provide information on any training envisaged and on measures to follow up on the Strategic Plan. It reminds the Government that it may seek technical assistance from the Office should it deem this necessary.

2. Discrimination on grounds of race and colour. Indigenous people and Afro-Colombians. In its previous comments the Committee referred to situations in which indigenous people and Afro-Colombians were the subject of discrimination in employment and occupation. It also referred to the conditions of extreme poverty suffered by Afro-Colombians. The Committee notes that the Government mentions some activities with indigenous women but sends no information on the other matters. The Committee accordingly asks the Government to provide information on the situation of indigenous people and Afro-Colombians as regards training and employment, and on the Government’s policy on equality in employment and training as regards these two groups.

3. Situation of the Roma. In its previous comments the Committee expressed concern at the situation of the Roma, who are subject to discrimination. It notes that the Government has not sent the information requested on this matter. The Committee is concerned at the lack of a reply from the Government on this matter and again requests it to provide information on the work situation of the Roma and on the application to the Roma of the principle of equality of opportunity and treatment in employment and occupation.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.