Employment Policy Convention, 1964 (No. 122) - Bolivia (Plurinational State of) (Ratification: 1977)

Individual Case (CAS) - Discussion: 1992, Publication: 79th ILC session (1992)

A Government representative indicated, in response to the request by the Experts that: it include in its next report more complete statistical data concerning in particular the volume and the distribution of labour, that a census had been carried out this year which would provide them with such data. He emphasised that, despite the difficult situation which his country was presently experiencing, his Government had made efforts to apply this Convention in the best possible manner. However, the principal concern was that they avoid the closure of enterprises and the laying off of workers as a result of structural adjustment policies recommended by international organisations. The observation of the Experts originated in 1985 when the first adjustment measures were taken involving the termination of 50,000 to 80,000 workers, including 30,000 miners. Today, the situation was entirely different and the frequency of terminations was greatly reduced as was made evident by the fact that the Office had not received any complaint in respect of this matter since 1986. In effect, his Government had sought to apply a policy that would not be automatically based upon the closure of enterprises or the termination of workers, but instead would be implemented by means of other kinds of solutions. The problem of employment creation was linked to the country's existing capacity for investment. In Bolivia this capacity had been minimal but jobs had all the same been created. Nevertheless, open unemployment had not been fully replaced by employment, although to a great extent had been reduced because of the existence of the informal sector. Hence, the unemployment rate which was 20 per cent in 1985 as stated in the Committee of Experts' report was presently between 6.5 and 7 per cent, according to the figures of the Latin American Economic Committee. One-third of the economically active population were currently underemployed. Even if this did not involve full employment, it was still a bridge between open unemployment and employment. This situation had permitted his country to experience social peace that it would not have enjoyed if there had been an unemployment rate of 20 per cent. Finally, the speaker indicated that his Government would supply the Committee with the information requested as soon as the data obtained from the previously mentioned census was available.

The Workers' members emphasised that this Convention had not been conceived as a miracle cure for unemployment. The Government was not expected to introduce policies that would cure unemployment overnight. The Conference Committee had consistently examined the application by governments of this Convention and had attempted to ensure that in this respect countries of all parts of the world, both developed and less developed, were the subject of their attention to determine how their obligations under the Convention were being respected. They expressed satisfaction with the new census provision, because statistical information was essential for the establishment of valid employment policies. The 6.5 to 7 per cent "open unemployment rate" referred to by the Government member was compared to the 20 per cent and 19 per cent unemployment rates in 1989 and 1990 that were listed in the ILO Year Book of Labour Statistics. The term "open unemployment rate" was unfamiliar to them, and they noted that unemployment rates published by governments often differed from year to year because of changes in methods for compiling statistics. The Workers' members recognised the problems that Bolivia had faced since 1985, but the provisions of the Convention were not to be observed only in times of economic prosperity; the Convention was designed to address employment problems in all economic circumstances, and it was arguable that such provisions must be observed most closely during periods of recession and significant structural reforms. They emphasised that the main provision of the Convention was that countries should declare and pursue as a major goal an active policy designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment. In order to establish such a policy, it was extremely important to consult with the social partners. The policy should not involve only those sectors of employment which the government controlled. The informal and rural sectors must also be taken into account. The Workers' members noted that the Committee of Experts' report asked the Government to indicate how the policy was being formulated, to specify the instrument in which it had been defined, and to describe the procedures adopted to ensure that the effects on employment of measures taken to promote economic development received due consideration. They requested in addition that information be provided on provisions the Government had adopted or was drawing up concerning consultation with the social partners. They concluded that although the extent of monetary investment was fundamental to a country's level of employment, investment must always be accompanied by the social dimension, which only the government itself could provide.

The Employers's members considered that the Government was doing what it could to solve its employment policy problems, and stressed that this was work that could not be carried out in isolation from other factors. They noted that the Government had instituted monetary stabilisation measures to reduce unemployment and that it was endeavouring to attract investment. Note was also taken that the real dimension of underemployment in the informal sector was very difficult to determine because of a lack of information about this area. It was hoped that the census might supply new data and updated facts and figures that could provide a basis for new measures. The creation of a vocational training institute, referred to in the Committee of Experts' report, was an extremely valuable investment for the future. When addressing the problem of unemployment, one must not only employ short-term solutions. Medium and long-term measures such as investment in vocational training also had important benefits.

The Employers' member of Bolivia explained that the termination of 30,000 miners in 1985 was not a result of a decision of the Government or of employers that had been freely made, but was a decision made at the metals' market in London where the price of tin had fallen from $8 to $2.5 a pound. One must not forget that Bolivia was the third largest producer in the world of tin and that its export represented more than 60 per cent of its income. He said that employment policies and problems must take into account events and conditions of international commerce.

The Government representative noted that in 1986 his country had experienced a very high number of terminations because of a decrease in prices and the closure of unprofitable enterprises, as a result of the application of recommendations of the International Monetary Fund. In response to the Workers' member, the speaker stated that when he had spoken about open unemployment, he simply meant unemployment, but that in reality even if this was not ideal a third of the economically active population was underemployed. It is these circumstances which permitted them to attain the 6.5 per cent or 7 per cent unemployment figures; even the ILO recognised the need to protect the informal sector, and had recommended that governments take measures in this area. Finally, he stated that his Government was prepared to supply the information which the ILO might request in the future on this subject.

The Committee noted with satisfaction the interest that the Government had taken in the subject of the Convention. It hoped that the Government would supply the ILO with studies and statistical data, in order that full assessments could be made by the supervisory machinery.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2021, published 110th ILC session (2022)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

The Committee notes the observations of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and the Confederation of Private Employers of Bolivia (CEPB), received on 30 August 2016 and 10 September 2018, in which the aforementioned organizations reiterate their previous observations. The Committee notes the Government’s reply to the first observation of the employers’ organizations, received on 5 September 2016. The Committee requests the Government to send its comments on the second observation.

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. In their observations, the employers’ organizations maintain that the protectionist labour policy implemented by the State in the last 12 years has had a negative impact on the formal labour market, detracting from full employment in the country. They state that the system of absolute labour stability and immunity prevailing in the country makes it impossible for employers to terminate employment, hampers the restructuring of enterprises and the implementation of innovations or technologies, and invalidates decisions to close enterprises. In addition, they denounce a considerable increase in the minimum wage, the imposition of a second bonus, and the lack of diversity in the General Labour Act as regards contracting schemes. The organizations indicate that article 49.III of the Political Constitution provides that the State shall protect labour stability, and that section 4, paragraph I(b), of Supreme Decree No. 28699 of 1 May 2006 provides that the employment relationship shall be governed by the principle of continuity, and this is why the longest possible duration is assigned to that relationship. They add that the system of labour stability and the reinstatement procedure governed by the aforementioned legislation is inconsistent with the provisions of section 13 of the General Labour Act and section 8 of its implementing regulations, which establish that when workers are dismissed for reasons beyond their control, employers are obliged to pay compensation and severance pay. The Government indicates in its reply that the changes in employment policy have contributed to the protection of workers’ rights and to achieving full employment. The Committee requests the Government to provide up-to-date information on the changes made in law and practice relating to the issues raised by the employers’ organizations, particularly on the application of the principle of labour stability in enterprises and their impact on full employment.

Labour market trends. Rates of employment, unemployment and visible underemployment. In its previous comments, the Committee asked the Government to provide information on progress made with regard to developing and implementing an active employment policy, and on the participation of the social partners in such implementation. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that up to the fourth quarter of 2016 the unemployment rate stood at 4.5 per cent. The Government reports the adoption of the “Economic and social development plan 2016–20”, in the context of the pillars of the Patriotic Agenda 2025. The Government also indicates that the Patriotic Agenda was the result of national consultations involving the participation of over 60,000 people through workshops, seminars and discussions with 338 municipalities. The Government adds that, as part of the aforementioned plan, a medium-range employment plan was adopted providing for the creation of some 600,000 jobs during its five-year duration. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that, owing to the financial crisis affecting neighbouring countries, an emergency “Job creation plan” was adopted in May 2017, aimed at creating job opportunities and reducing the unemployment rate to 2.7 per cent. A number of measures have been adopted as part of that plan, such as: (i) the implementation of programmes to promote youth employment; (ii) the establishment of the “Seed capital fund”, which provides loans for micro and small enterprises; (iii) the adoption of the “Urban structure programme” and the “Programme for the protection and rehabilitation of productive areas”, which seek to create jobs by hiring individuals for public works construction projects; and (iv) the granting of a financial incentive to enterprises presenting proposals for the creation of a large number of jobs through public contracts. The Government refers to the implementation of the “Employment support programme”, whose main objective is to extend the coverage and effectiveness of active employment policies through improvements to the job placement system and the development of programmes that increase employability. In this respect, the Government indicates that from September 2012 to December 2016 a total of 18,846 jobseekers benefited from the “Employment support programme”. In addition, in 2016, the Public Employment and Vocational Guidance Service successfully implemented 19,225 job placements and provided training and vocational guidance for 2,814 job applicants. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed, up-to-date information, including statistics disaggregated by sex and age, on the results achieved under the “Economic and social development plan 2016–20”, indicating in particular the rates of employment, unemployment and, if possible, visible underemployment.

Specific groups of socially vulnerable workers. The Government indicates that it has formulated active employment policies for socially vulnerable categories, particularly persons with disabilities. At the legislative level, the Committee notes that the Bill concerning labour market integration and economic support for persons with disabilities provides for the implementation of quotas in the public and private sectors (4 and 2 per cent, respectively) aimed at promoting entry into employment for persons with disabilities or their guardians (father, mother, spouse or legal guardian). The aforementioned Bill also provides for the payment of a monthly bonus in the event that the guardian of a person with a serious disability has been unable to benefit from the abovementioned employment programme. The Committee also notes that, in the context of the “Employment support programme”, job placement programmes were implemented with a view to improving the employability of persons with disabilities and/or their guardians. The Government indicates that 236 participants benefited from the “Employment support programme” in 2016 and that some 500 persons were estimated to have been beneficiaries in the second phase. As regards the victims of trafficking in persons, the Government indicates that section 24 of the Integrated Anti-Trafficking Act (No. 263 of 31 July 2012) provides that the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Welfare shall be obliged to arrange for the economic reintegration of victims. The Government indicates that the Directorate-General of Employment is formulating a policy with a view to their integration in the labour market, taking action in the area of prevention and with respect to the regulation of private employment agencies. The Committee requests the Government to continue providing information on the measures taken or contemplated for specific groups of socially vulnerable workers, and on the impact thereof.

Youth employment. The Government indicates that the National Constitution establishes the obligation for the State to ensure the integration of young persons in the labour market (articles 46–55 of the Constitution). The Committee notes that the Youth Act (No. 342 of 21 February 2013) provides that the State shall be obliged to create effective conditions for the entry of young persons into the labour market through job creation and the implementation of socio-economic policies. Moreover, the Education Act (No. 070 of 20 December 2010) establishes a system of vocational training. The Government indicates that one of the main objectives of the “Economic and social development plan 2016–20” regarding youth employment is to reduce the current unemployment rate for young persons in the 24–28 age group to 6.3 per cent. The Committee notes the adoption of an initial vocational training contract scheme (entitled “My first decent job”), which seeks to provide training for young persons on a low income in the 18–24 age group in various trades such as tailoring, industrial garment-making and construction of housing units. In this regard, the Government indicates that 1,367 young persons have benefited from the programme, of whom 56 per cent were women. The Government reports the adoption of a second contract scheme (entitled “Improving the employability and labour income of young persons”), which seeks to improve the employability of socially vulnerable young persons, in particular those who have not completed secondary education or who wish to establish and develop a microenterprise. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed, up-to-date information, disaggregated by sex, on the results achieved by the measures taken to ensure entry into the labour market for young persons.

Informal economy and productive employment. The Government indicates that, in order to encourage the transition from informality to formality, the compulsory registration of employers and workers by size of enterprise has been reinforced. The Committee requests the Government to provide up-to-date information, disaggregated by sex and age, on the rate of informality in the country, and to provide detailed information on the measures taken to facilitate the transition of workers from the informal to the formal economy.

Microenterprises. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to improve the productivity and competitiveness of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. It also requests the Government to provide information, including statistics, on the impact of such measures on the creation of jobs.

Cooperatives. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the contribution of cooperatives to the creation of productive employment.

Coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide detailed information on the coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy, and particularly on how the training opportunities provided by training institutes are coordinated with labour market demand for knowledge and skills.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2018, published 108th ILC session (2019)

The Committee notes the observations of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and the Confederation of Private Employers of Bolivia (CEPB), received on 30 August 2016 and 10 September 2018, in which the aforementioned organizations reiterate their previous observations. The Committee notes the Government’s reply to the first observation of the employers’ organizations, received on 5 September 2016. The Committee requests the Government to send its comments on the second observation.

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. In their observations, the employers’ organizations maintain that the protectionist labour policy implemented by the State in the last 12 years has had a negative impact on the formal labour market, detracting from full employment in the country. They state that the system of absolute labour stability and immunity prevailing in the country makes it impossible for employers to terminate employment, hampers the restructuring of enterprises and the implementation of innovations or technologies, and invalidates decisions to close enterprises. In addition, they denounce a considerable increase in the minimum wage, the imposition of a second bonus, and the lack of diversity in the General Labour Act as regards contracting schemes. The organizations indicate that article 49.III of the Political Constitution provides that the State shall protect labour stability, and that section 4, paragraph I(b), of Supreme Decree No. 28699 of 1 May 2006 provides that the employment relationship shall be governed by the principle of continuity, and this is why the longest possible duration is assigned to that relationship. They add that the system of labour stability and the reinstatement procedure governed by the aforementioned legislation is inconsistent with the provisions of section 13 of the General Labour Act and section 8 of its implementing regulations, which establish that when workers are dismissed for reasons beyond their control, employers are obliged to pay compensation and severance pay. The Government indicates in its reply that the changes in employment policy have contributed to the protection of workers’ rights and to achieving full employment. The Committee requests the Government to provide up-to-date information on the changes made in law and practice relating to the issues raised by the employers’ organizations, particularly on the application of the principle of labour stability in enterprises and their impact on full employment.

Labour market trends. Rates of employment, unemployment and visible underemployment. In its previous comments, the Committee asked the Government to provide information on progress made with regard to developing and implementing an active employment policy, and on the participation of the social partners in such implementation. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that up to the fourth quarter of 2016 the unemployment rate stood at 4.5 per cent. The Government reports the adoption of the “Economic and social development plan 2016–20”, in the context of the pillars of the Patriotic Agenda 2025. The Government also indicates that the Patriotic Agenda was the result of national consultations involving the participation of over 60,000 people through workshops, seminars and discussions with 338 municipalities. The Government adds that, as part of the aforementioned plan, a medium-range employment plan was adopted providing for the creation of some 600,000 jobs during its five-year duration. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that, owing to the financial crisis affecting neighbouring countries, an emergency “Job creation plan” was adopted in May 2017, aimed at creating job opportunities and reducing the unemployment rate to 2.7 per cent. A number of measures have been adopted as part of that plan, such as: (i) the implementation of programmes to promote youth employment; (ii) the establishment of the “Seed capital fund”, which provides loans for micro and small enterprises; (iii) the adoption of the “Urban structure programme” and the “Programme for the protection and rehabilitation of productive areas”, which seek to create jobs by hiring individuals for public works construction projects; and (iv) the granting of a financial incentive to enterprises presenting proposals for the creation of a large number of jobs through public contracts. The Government refers to the implementation of the “Employment support programme”, whose main objective is to extend the coverage and effectiveness of active employment policies through improvements to the job placement system and the development of programmes that increase employability. In this respect, the Government indicates that from September 2012 to December 2016 a total of 18,846 jobseekers benefited from the “Employment support programme”. In addition, in 2016, the Public Employment and Vocational Guidance Service successfully implemented 19,225 job placements and provided training and vocational guidance for 2,814 job applicants. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed, up-to-date information, including statistics disaggregated by sex and age, on the results achieved under the “Economic and social development plan 2016–20”, indicating in particular the rates of employment, unemployment and, if possible, visible underemployment.

Specific groups of socially vulnerable workers. The Government indicates that it has formulated active employment policies for socially vulnerable categories, particularly persons with disabilities. At the legislative level, the Committee notes that the Bill concerning labour market integration and economic support for persons with disabilities provides for the implementation of quotas in the public and private sectors (4 and 2 per cent, respectively) aimed at promoting entry into employment for persons with disabilities or their guardians (father, mother, spouse or legal guardian). The aforementioned Bill also provides for the payment of a monthly bonus in the event that the guardian of a person with a serious disability has been unable to benefit from the abovementioned employment programme. The Committee also notes that, in the context of the “Employment support programme”, job placement programmes were implemented with a view to improving the employability of persons with disabilities and/or their guardians. The Government indicates that 236 participants benefited from the “Employment support programme” in 2016 and that some 500 persons were estimated to have been beneficiaries in the second phase. As regards the victims of trafficking in persons, the Government indicates that section 24 of the Integrated Anti-Trafficking Act (No. 263 of 31 July 2012) provides that the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Welfare shall be obliged to arrange for the economic reintegration of victims. The Government indicates that the Directorate-General of Employment is formulating a policy with a view to their integration in the labour market, taking action in the area of prevention and with respect to the regulation of private employment agencies. The Committee requests the Government to continue providing information on the measures taken or contemplated for specific groups of socially vulnerable workers, and on the impact thereof.

Youth employment. The Government indicates that the National Constitution establishes the obligation for the State to ensure the integration of young persons in the labour market (articles 46–55 of the Constitution). The Committee notes that the Youth Act (No. 342 of 21 February 2013) provides that the State shall be obliged to create effective conditions for the entry of young persons into the labour market through job creation and the implementation of socio-economic policies. Moreover, the Education Act (No. 070 of 20 December 2010) establishes a system of vocational training. The Government indicates that one of the main objectives of the “Economic and social development plan 2016–20” regarding youth employment is to reduce the current unemployment rate for young persons in the 24–28 age group to 6.3 per cent. The Committee notes the adoption of an initial vocational training contract scheme (entitled “My first decent job”), which seeks to provide training for young persons on a low income in the 18–24 age group in various trades such as tailoring, industrial garment-making and construction of housing units. In this regard, the Government indicates that 1,367 young persons have benefited from the programme, of whom 56 per cent were women. The Government reports the adoption of a second contract scheme (entitled “Improving the employability and labour income of young persons”), which seeks to improve the employability of socially vulnerable young persons, in particular those who have not completed secondary education or who wish to establish and develop a microenterprise. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed, up-to-date information, disaggregated by sex, on the results achieved by the measures taken to ensure entry into the labour market for young persons.

Informal economy and productive employment. The Government indicates that, in order to encourage the transition from informality to formality, the compulsory registration of employers and workers by size of enterprise has been reinforced. The Committee requests the Government to provide up-to-date information, disaggregated by sex and age, on the rate of informality in the country, and to provide detailed information on the measures taken to facilitate the transition of workers from the informal to the formal economy.

Microenterprises. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to improve the productivity and competitiveness of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. It also requests the Government to provide information, including statistics, on the impact of such measures on the creation of jobs.

Cooperatives. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information on the contribution of cooperatives to the creation of productive employment.

Coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide detailed information on the coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy, and particularly on how the training opportunities provided by training institutes are coordinated with labour market demand for knowledge and skills.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

Articles 1 and 3 of the Convention. Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. Consultations with the social partners. The Committee notes that the proposal on the national employment policy developed in 2011 and submitted to the National Economic and Social Policy Council has not been carried through. The Government indicates that the State recognizes the right to consultation of all actors involved in development programmes and projects, even though there is currently no national employment policy. The Government adds that each year the Bolivian Centre of Workers (COB) submits a list of claims containing the demands of workers organized at the national level, including on subjects relating to employment. The Committee also notes the information provided by the Government on the activities of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security through the three units within the plurinational employment department: the employment exchange, the labour training and guidance unit and the employment support unit for persons with disabilities. The Committee requests the Government to submit detailed information on progress made to develop and implement an active employment policy. The Committee invites the Government to include details on the participation of social partners in the development and implementation of an employment policy, and the manner in which the representatives of the most vulnerable categories of the population – in particular representatives of rural workers and of the informal economy – have participated in the development of employment policies and programmes.

Youth employment. The Government indicates that the “My First Decent Job” programme has been carried out in three stages, the first funded by the State, the second by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation and the third by the World Bank. In December 2013, within the framework of the third stage which was implemented in early 2009, 611 young persons benefited from the programme, 212 of whom received a technical diploma awarded by the Ministry of Education. The Committee invites the Government to continue providing information on the scope and impact of the measures adopted to promote youth employment, in particular for individuals in socially vulnerable conditions, and to encourage the long-term integration of young people into the labour market.

Informal economy and productive employment. The Committee notes the enactment of the Act to promote and develop the handicraft sector, of 8 January 2012, intended to facilitate access of the handicraft sector to funding, technical assistance, training and to markets, and to recover and pass on sector-specific skills. The Committee invites the Government to continue providing information on the measures adopted to enable informal economy workers to progressively transfer to the formal sector, including data on the impact of programmes on microcredit, training and the promotion of the handicraft sector.

Micro-enterprises. The Government indicates that, according to the database of the Bolivian National Chamber of Commerce, the majority of enterprises and those with the highest number of jobs were micro- and small enterprises. Over 64 per cent of workers in micro- and small enterprises work in the production and services sectors. Micro-enterprises account for 54.8 per cent of the active population, equivalent to over a million workers. The Committee notes the establishment of PRO-BOLIVIA, through Supreme Decree No. 29727 of October 2008, which is a body under the Ministry of Productive Development and Plural Economy with the primary objective of promoting the transformation of the national production matrix, thereby creating added value to primary production and to the transformation of production. The Committee also notes the signing by the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security of inter-institutional agreements with the National Confederation of Micro- and Small Enterprises (CONAMyPE) in November 2012 and with PRO-BOLIVIA in May 2013. The Committee invites the Government to continue providing information on the measures adopted to improve the productivity and competitiveness of micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Cooperatives. The Committee notes that during 2013, 4,526 new jobs were created in 3,600 production cooperatives and 926 service cooperatives. Furthermore, the Government indicates that between 2006 and 2013 37,746 cooperatives were established, 68.52 per cent of these in the production sector and 31.48 per cent in services. The Committee notes that most of the cooperatives in the production sector belong to the mining industry, while most in the services sector are in transport. The Government emphasizes the enactment, in April 2013, of the new General Act on Cooperatives. The Committee invites the Government to continue providing information on the contribution of cooperatives to the promotion of productive employment.

Coordination of education and vocational training policy with employment policy. The Committee once again invites the Government to provide detailed information on the coordination of education and vocational training policy with employment policy, and particularly on how the training opportunities provided by training institutes (ICAPS) are coordinated with the demand of the labour market for knowledge and skills.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

Formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. Consultations with the social partners. The Committee notes the report received in September 2011 which includes replies and information relating to its previous comments. The Government provides a proposed employment policy submitted to the Economic Cabinet of the National Economic and Social Policy Council (CONAPES). The Government recognizes that no machinery yet exists to articulate employment generation plans and programmes in a specific and systematic manner. The proposal was opened up to social dialogue through three workshops with the social partners, which benefitted from ILO assistance. The Government is seeking to increase public investment, loan policies and to establish a mining financial fund. As a result of public investment, it is estimated that the investment programme in 2009 achieved the creation of approximately 72,000 direct jobs and 148,000 indirect jobs. The Committee understands that, according to the preliminary data published by ECLAC, the unemployment rate fell from 6 to 5.5 per cent between June 2010 and June 2011, due principally to the reduction in the unemployment rate of women, which fell from 6.9 to 6.1 per cent. The activity rate fell slightly from 53.7 to 52.8 per cent, as did the participation rate, which fell from 45.5 to 44.8 per cent. The Committee invites the Government to indicate in its next report whether the employment policy was adopted and the impact of the measures and programmes implemented to promote the objectives of the Convention (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention). The Committee hopes that the report will include information on the views expressed by the social partners on the employment policy and the manner in which they participated in the consultations required for the formulation and implementation of an employment policy, as required by Article 3 of the Convention. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the manner in which the representatives of the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly representatives of rural workers and workers in the informal economy, have participated in the formulation of employment policies and programmes.

Youth employment. In reply to its previous comments, the Government has provided information on the “My First Decent Job” project, which is intended for young persons in extreme or moderate poverty and with little formal academic education. The project consists of two types of activities: training for integration into the labour market; and training for entrepreneurship (at the municipal level). The project received financing from the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and benefitted 2,562 young persons between 18 and 25 years of age in the departments of La Paz, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report indicating whether the young beneficiaries of these programmes have succeeded in entering and remaining in the labour market. The Committee invites the Government to indicate any new measures adopted to promote youth employment.

Informal economy and productive employment. In its previous comment, the Committee observed that, in urban areas, 1.6 million people are engaged in informal economic activities, mostly in the trade and services sector. Jobs in the informal economy are low wage, low productivity and practically without access to social benefits. The Committee once again invites the Government to describe in its report the employment policy measures adopted and their contribution to the progressive integration of informal economy workers into the formal labour market.

Micro-enterprises. In its previous comment, the Committee observed that, according to the National Development Plan 2006–10, eight out of every ten jobs were created in highly precarious micro-enterprise units in which labour rights do not appear to be respected. The Committee once again invites the Government to provide information on the measures adopted to improve the productivity and competitiveness of micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Cooperatives. In reply to the previous comments, the Government indicates that, according to the latest survey of the mining sector, there are 562 cooperative organizations, grouped into ten federations, and 516 basic cooperatives in the country. The smallest cooperatives have 12 members and the largest membership is 4,000. The sector makes a significant contribution, as sales by mining cooperatives in the first half of 2008 totalled US$367 million. The Committee refers to the Promotion of Cooperatives Recommendation, 2002 (No. 193), and asks the Government to continue providing information on the contribution made by cooperatives to the promotion of productive employment.

Coordination of education and vocational training policy with employment policy. In reply to its previous comments, the Government has provided the technical report of the National Skills Certification Service submitted in December 2009. This technical report proposes an administrative reorganization of the National Service. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policies, and particularly on how the training opportunities provided by Training Institutes (ICAPS) are coordinated with the demand for knowledge, skills requirements and labour market needs.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

1. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Declaration and pursuit of an active employment policy. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the report received in September 2009. The Government states that a new Constitution came into force on 7 February 2009, section 54 of which provides that it is the State’s obligation to establish employment policies which avoid unemployment and underemployment and seek to increase, maintain and generate conditions which ensure possibilities of decent employment and fair remuneration for workers. Furthermore, Supreme Decree No. 29894 of 7 February 2009 states that the responsibilities of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Welfare include formulating, proposing and coordinating the implementation of active and passive labour, employment and social welfare policies, especially for young persons. The Vice-Ministry of Employment, Civil Service and Cooperatives is responsible for the formulation, coordination and implementation of inter-sectoral plans and programmes for the generation and promotion of employment with the autonomous decentralized territorial entities and for the coordination with public and private bodies of the formulation and execution of plans and programmes relating to job placement, technical training and certification of labour skills.

2. The Committee notes the Government’s indication to the effect that the unemployment rate is 7.7 per cent (223,000 persons) for urban areas and 1.6 per cent (32,000 persons) for rural areas. In urban areas, the proportion of the working population living in poverty is 43.6 per cent (1.17 million persons), while the equivalent figure for rural areas is 76.6 per cent (1.5 million persons), which points to extremely precarious conditions of employment. The Committee notes that, in order to integrate policies, programmes and projects aimed at solving the main employment issues and devising guidelines for creating more opportunities of decent work, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Welfare is drawing up a national employment policy. The proposal for the national employment policy suggests that a macroeconomic policy must be pursued with a view to promoting industrialization, the recovery of the internal market and the redefinition of relations with the international markets in order to increase sustainable employment and redistribute income.

3. The Committee further notes that, in order to tackle the possible impact of the international employment crisis, the “Immediate Action Plan” has been drawn up with the objective of maintaining and creating employment on the basis of more dynamic public investment, with the focus on road transport and productive infrastructure, with 22,000 new jobs expected to be created. The Government also hopes that at least 15,000 new jobs will be created through the National Housing Programme. The Committee requests the Government to supply information in its next report on the formulation and implementation of the national employment policy and its impact on reducing unemployment and underemployment. The Committee also requests the Government to continue to supply information on the situation, level and trends in employment, unemployment and underemployment, in both urban and rural areas of the country. With reference to Article 3 of the Convention, the Committee also hopes that the report will include information on the manner in which the social partners participate in the development of the national employment policy and other policies, specifically within the Inter-Institutional Committee on the Promotion of Employment and in the National Industrial Development Council (CONDESIN). The Committee also requests the Government to supply information on how the representatives of the most vulnerable categories of the population – in particular, representatives of rural workers and from the informal economy – participate in the formulation of employment policies and programmes.

4. Youth employment. The Committee notes that paragraph VII of section 48 of the Constitution provides that the State shall ensure the incorporation of young persons in the system of production, in accordance with their skills and training. According to the information in the report, the youth unemployment rate exceeds 14 per cent and two programmes are being implemented, the “Youth in action” programme and the “My first decent job” programme, aimed at increasing the integration of young persons with limited resources in the labour market in order to improve their employability by means of training and placement programmes. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the results achieved by these programmes in ensuring access to the labour market for young persons.

5. Informal economy and productive employment. The Government indicates that, in urban areas, 1.6 million of the working population are engaged in informal economic activities, mostly in the trade and services sectors. According to the Government, jobs in the informal economy are low in income and productivity and offer practically no access to any social benefit or protection for the worker. The Committee notes that a proposal was drawn up in 2009 for a policy of employability for the informal sector and actions by the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Welfare were planned to promote the transition from the informal to the formal economy. The Committee requests the Government to supply information in its next report on the manner in which the measures mentioned in its report are contributing to the progressive transition of workers from the informal economy to the formal job market.

6. Micro-enterprises. The Committee observes that the March 2007 document on the Decent Work Programme for Bolivia indicates that, according to the “National development plan 2006–10”, eight out of ten jobs are created in highly precarious micro-enterprise units in which labour rights are neither recognized nor applied to workers, with insufficient physical and human resources and without access to entrepreneurial services. The Government indicates in its report that the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Productive Development and Plural Economy have drawn up the “Sectoral plan for productive development with decent work”, which focuses, among its principal strategies, on legislative change for the development of productive units, with the emphasis on micro- and small enterprises and the reinforcement of support services for the business sector. The Committee hopes that the Government will include information in its next report on progress made with regard to measures adopted through the “National development plan” and the “Sectoral plan for productive development with decent work” and its impact on improving the productivity and competitiveness of micro-, small and medium enterprises.

7. Cooperatives. The Committee notes that the new Constitution directly promotes the establishment of cooperatives as an alternative form of organization for strengthening the productive development of the country. The Committee refers to the Promotion of Cooperatives Recommendation, 2002 (No. 193), and requests the Government to indicate in its next report the manner in which cooperatives have contributed to the promotion of productive employment.

8. Coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee observes that the “Economic and social development plan” of September 2007 proposed a process of change to transform the design and operation of education at pre-school, primary, secondary, technical and university levels, whether of a formal or alternative nature. Furthermore, with a view to improving the employability of workers, an institutional framework for the functioning of the national skill certification system was established, whereby the State formally recognizes individuals’ labour skills, regardless of how they were acquired. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policies, particularly on how training opportunities created by the Training Institutes (ICAPs) are coordinated with the demand for the requisite knowledge and skills and the requirements of the labour market.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2008, published 98th ILC session (2009)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat the matters raised in its 2006 and 2007 observations, which read as follows:

1. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Coordination of economic policy with poverty reduction. The Committee noted the report received in November 2005 and the additional documentation received in February 2006. The Government provided a copy of the Statistical Yearbook 2004, as well as reports of the National Regional Development Fund and the National Productive and Social Fund on the implementation of the National Emergency Employment Plan (PLANE I, II and III) and the PROPAIS Plan. PLANE provided temporary jobs for 250,000 people during the period May 2004–September 2005. PROPAIS assisted over 200,000 people by providing temporary work through the execution of around 1,300 projects to finance infrastructure and community development projects. The Government has also provided information on the new structure and functions of the Ministry of Labour, as set out in Presidential Decree No. 27732 of 15 September 2004. The Ministry of Labour has been assigned responsibility for improving employment policies through their design, adaptation and implementation. The Government also recalled the components of the Bolivian Poverty Reduction Strategy and the main activities envisaged under the Strategy. According to the data provided by the Government, open unemployment in urban areas fell to 8.7 per cent in 2004, although over 36 per cent of the active urban population are self-employed; 12 per cent are reported to be family workers or unpaid apprentices and 4 per cent household employees. The Committee requests the Government to specify whether the Ministry of Labour is still responsible for declaring and pursuing an active employment policy, as required by the Convention, and asks the Government to provide detailed information on the results achieved in the creation of lasting employment and the reduction of underemployment in the context of the national employment policy.

2. Coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee noted the information concerning the process of the Bolivian National Productive Dialogue (DNBP) 2004, during which it was considered necessary to promote technical and technological education with a view to achieving effective economic recovery. Furthermore, in May 2005, a programme for young persons was approved, consisting of voluntary work by young persons leaving public universities. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved by the initiatives adopted in the framework of the 2004 dialogue (such as the development of an Integrated Skills System and the implementation of the Programme for the Strengthening of Technical and Technological Training) so as to ensure the coordination of vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the results achieved in terms of young persons leaving university who find lasting employment.

3. Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and implementation of policies. The Committee noted that, in 2005, as proposed by the ILO Subregional Office, an Inter-Institutional Employment Promotion Committee was organized, with the participation of Government authorities and representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations. The specific objectives of the Inter‑Institutional Committee included the establishment of a climate for the exchange of experience with a view to facilitating employment generation policies. The Government also referred to the National Industrial Development Council (CONDESIN), established in 2002, to coordinate the National Industrial Development Strategy with a view to promoting manufacturing in the country as a strategic basis for employment generation. The Committee requests the Government to provide with its next report the documents on employment policy approved by the Inter-Institutional Committee and by CONDESIN. The Committee also requests the Government to consider the manner in which representatives of the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly representatives of those working in rural areas and the informal economy, are included in the consultations required by the Convention when formulating and enlisting support for employment policy programmes and measures.

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

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its 2006 observation which read as follows:

1. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Coordination of economic policy with poverty reduction. The Committee notes the report received in November 2005 and the particularly full additional documentation received in February 2006. The Government provided a copy of the Statistical Yearbook 2004, as well as reports of the National Regional Development Fund and the National Productive and Social Fund on the implementation of the National Emergency Employment Plan (PLANE I, II and III) and the PROPAIS Plan. PLANE provided temporary jobs for 250,000 people during the period May 2004–September 2005. PROPAIS assisted over 200,000 people by providing temporary work through the execution of around 1,300 projects to finance infrastructure and community development projects. The Government has also provided information on the new structure and functions of the Ministry of Labour, as set out in Presidential Decree No. 27732 of 15 September 2004. The Ministry of Labour has been assigned responsibility for improving employment policies through their design, adaptation and implementation. The Government also recalls the components of the Bolivian Poverty Reduction Strategy and the main activities envisaged under the Strategy. According to the data provided by the Government, open unemployment in urban areas fell to 8.7 per cent in 2004, although over 36 per cent of the active urban population are self-employed; 12 per cent are reported to be family workers or unpaid apprentices and 4 per cent household employees. The Committee requests the Government to specify whether the Ministry of Labour is still responsible for declaring and pursuing an active employment policy, as required by the Convention, and asks the Government to continue providing detailed information on the results achieved in the creation of lasting employment and the reduction of underemployment in the context of the national employment policy.

2. Coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee notes with interest the information concerning the process of the Bolivian National Productive Dialogue (DNBP) 2004, during which it was considered necessary to promote technical and technological education with a view to achieving effective economic recovery. Furthermore, in May 2005, a programme for young persons was approved, consisting of voluntary work by young persons leaving public universities. The Committee reiterates its interest for the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved by the initiatives adopted in the framework of the 2004 dialogue (such as the development of an Integrated Skills System and the implementation of the Programme for the Strengthening of Technical and Technological Training) so as to ensure the coordination of vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the results achieved in terms of young persons leaving university who find lasting employment.

3. Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and implementation of policies. The Committee notes with interest that, in 2005, as proposed by the Subregional Office, an Inter-Institutional Employment Promotion Committee was organized, with the participation of Government authorities and representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations. The specific objectives of the Inter‑Institutional Committee include the establishment of a climate for the exchange of experience with a view to facilitating employment generation policies. The Government also refers to the National Industrial Development Council (CONDESIN), established in 2002, to coordinate the National Industrial Development Strategy with a view to promoting manufacturing in the country as a strategic basis for employment generation. The Committee requests the Government to provide with its next report the documents on employment policy approved by the Inter-Institutional Committee and by CONDESIN. The Committee also requests the Government to consider the manner in which representatives of the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly representatives of those working in rural areas and the informal economy, are included in the consultations required by the Convention when formulating and enlisting support for employment policy programmes and measures.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

1. Coordination of economic policy with poverty reduction. The Committee notes the report received in November 2005 and the particularly full additional documentation received in February 2006. The Government provided a copy of the Statistical Yearbook 2004, as well as reports of the National Regional Development Fund and the National Productive and Social Fund on the implementation of the National Emergency Employment Plan (PLANE I, II and III) and the PROPAIS Plan. PLANE provided temporary jobs for 250,000 people during the period May 2004-September 2005. PROPAIS assisted over 200,000 people by providing temporary work through the execution of around 1,300 projects to finance infrastructure and community development projects. The Government has also provided information on the new structure and functions of the Ministry of Labour, as set out in Presidential Decree No. 27732 of 15 September 2004. The Ministry of Labour has been assigned responsibility for improving employment policies through their design, adaptation and implementation. The Government also recalls the components of the Bolivian Poverty Reduction Strategy and the main activities envisaged under the Strategy. According to the data provided by the Government, open unemployment in urban areas fell to 8.7 per cent in 2004, although over 36 per cent of the active urban population are self-employed; 12 per cent are reported to be family workers or unpaid apprentices and 4 per cent household employees. The Committee requests the Government to specify whether the Ministry of Labour is still responsible for declaring and pursuing an active employment policy, as required by the Convention, and asks the Government to continue providing detailed information on the results achieved in the creation of lasting employment and the reduction of underemployment in the context of the national employment policy (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention).

2. Coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee notes with interest the information concerning the process of the Bolivian National Productive Dialogue (DNBP) 2004, during which it was considered necessary to promote technical and technological education with a view to achieving effective economic recovery. Furthermore, in May 2005, a programme for young persons was approved, consisting of voluntary work by young persons leaving public universities. The Committee reiterates its interest for the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved by the initiatives adopted in the framework of the 2004 dialogue (such as the development of an Integrated Skills System and the implementation of the Programme for the Strengthening of Technical and Technological Training) so as to ensure the coordination of vocational training policies with employment policy. The Committee requests the Government to indicate the results achieved in terms of young persons leaving university who find lasting employment.

3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and implementation of policies. The Committee notes with interest that, in 2005, as proposed by the Subregional Office, an Inter-Institutional Employment Promotion Committee was organized, with the participation of Government authorities and representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations. The specific objectives of the Inter‑Institutional Committee include the establishment of a climate for the exchange of experience with a view to facilitating employment generation policies. The Government also refers to the National Industrial Development Council (CONDESIN), established in 2002, to coordinate the National Industrial Development Strategy with a view to promoting manufacturing in the country as a strategic basis for employment generation. The Committee requests the Government to provide with its next report the documents on employment policy approved by the Inter-Institutional Committee and by CONDESIN. The Committee also requests the Government to consider the manner in which representatives of the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly representatives of those working in rural areas and the informal economy, are included in the consultations required by the Convention when formulating and enlisting support for employment policy programmes and measures (Article 3).

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2004, published 93rd ILC session (2005)

1. Coordination of employment policy with poverty reduction. With reference to the observation of 2002, the Government provided brief information in September 2003 that the National General Budget envisaged an increase in investment with a view to financing over 3,000 public works in all regions of the country. To maintain the necessary macroeconomic equilibrium for the growth of production, employment generation and price stability, the Government had reached significant agreements with multilateral organizations to obtain the resources required both to finance the fiscal deficit and to carry out public investments. The Committee notes that the employment situation deteriorated in Bolivia in 2002. The urban employment rate fell from 55.4 per cent in 2001 to 53 per cent in 2002. The open urban unemployment rate only rose from 8.5 per cent in 2001 to 8.7 per cent in 2002 due to the fact that the fall in the number of employed persons was compensated by the reduction in the economically active population. The number of employed women fell by 4.7 per cent and the open urban unemployment rate among women rose from 9.7 per cent to 10.3 per cent (according to estimates by ECLAC in its Economic Study of Latin America and the Caribbean, 2002-2003).

2. In its previous observation, the Committee recalled that in June 2001, the international financial institutions made arrangements allowing Bolivia to benefit from the Enhanced Initiative for Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC), under which Bolivia benefited from a considerable lightening of debt service (in the order of US$2 billion until 2020). The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the measures adopted to promote the objectives of full and productive employment set out in the Convention in the implementation of the property reduction strategy. In this respect, the Committee emphasizes the importance of having available statistical information on the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extent of unemployment as an essential basic stage in pursuing an active employment policy within the meaning of Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

3. Please provide information on the results achieved by the National Emergency Employment Plan (PLANE), launched in November 2001, in relation to the creation of productive employment. Please also continue providing information on the achievements of other projects established to create lasting employment through micro-enterprises in the rural sector.

4. The Committee once again requests the Government to refer in its next report to matters relating to the coordination of education and vocational training policies with the employment policy, which is essential to ensure that all workers have opportunities to acquire the necessary training to find a suitable job and to make use of their training and skills in such employment. In this respect, the Government may wish to refer to the guidance contained in the Human Resources Development Recommendation, 2004 (No. 195).

5. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Committee once again recalls that the consultations required by the Convention must cover the measures to be adopted in relation to the employment policy with a view to taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons consulted and also to securing their full cooperation in formulating and enlisting the support necessary for the implementation of such policies. Consultations with representatives of the persons affected should include, in particular, representatives of employers and workers, as well as representatives of other sectors of the active population, such as those who work in the rural sector and the informal economy. The Committee trusts that the Government will include in its next report the information requested in the report form under Article 3 of the Convention on the consultations required in relation to the employment policy.

6. The Committee asks the Government, when preparing its next report on the application of the Convention, also to take into account the points raised in this year’s observation on the application of the Employment Service Convention, 1948 (No. 88). The preparation of a detailed report containing replies to the matters raised in this observation will undoubtedly provide an opportunity for the Government and the social partners to evaluate the manner of achieving the objective of full and productive employment set out in the Convention. The Committee recalls that the preparation of a full report on the application of the Convention may require consultations with other concerned government ministries or agencies, such as those responsible for planning, the economy and statistics. The Government may also consider it useful to refer to the Committee’s General Survey of 2004 on promoting employment.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2002, published 91st ILC session (2003)

1. The Committee notes the Government’s report, received in June 2002, in which it refers briefly to the process known as National Dialogue 2000, which led to the preparation of a Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper. This dialogue has also led to consensus on health, education, land ownership and support for the productive infrastructure. As a consequence, in June 2001, the international financial institutions made arrangements allowing Bolivia to benefit from the Enhanced Initiative for Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC), under which Bolivia benefited from a considerable lightening of the debt service (in the order of 2 billion US dollars until 2020). Indeed, some 58.6 per cent of the population of Bolivia is currently living below the poverty threshold. The Committee asks the Government to provide information in its next report on any measures taken to promote the objectives of full and productive employment set out in the Convention in the implementation of the Bolivian Poverty Reduction Strategy. In this respect, the Committee emphasizes the importance of having available statistical information on the size and distribution of the labour force, and on the nature and extent of unemployment, as an essential basic stage in pursuing an active employment policy, within the meaning of Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

2. The Government also refers in its report to the National Emergency Employment Plan (PLANE), launched in November 2001, the purpose of which is to create 73,000 temporary jobs over a period of two years. The Committee trusts that in its next report the Government will be in a position to describe the results achieved by PLANE in the creation of productive employment. Please also continue providing information on the results of the other projects undertaken to create lasting employment through micro-enterprises in the rural sector.

3. The Committee once again requests the Government to refer in its next report to matters relating to the coordination of education and vocational training policies with the employment policy, which is essential to ensure that all workers have opportunities to acquire the necessary training to find a suitable job and to make use of their training and skills in such employment.

4. Article 3. In reply to its previous comments, the Government states in its report that consultations were held only within the framework of National Dialogue 2000. The Committee recalls that the consultations required by the Convention must cover the measures to be adopted in relation to the employment policy with a view to taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons consulted and also to securing their full cooperation in formulating and enlisting support for such policies. Consultations with representatives of the persons affected must include, in particular, representatives of employers and workers, as well as representatives of other sectors of the active population, such as those who work in the rural sector and the informal sector. The Committee trusts that the Government will include in its next report the information requested in the report form under Article 3 of the Convention on the consultations required in relation to the employment policy.

5. Part V of the report form. The Committee notes with interest the proposals for employment and social protection policies and programmes made by the ILO Multidisciplinary Advisory Team and would be grateful if the Government would indicate in its next report the action taken as a result of the technical assistance provided by the Office with a view to promoting the application of the Convention.

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

The Committee again notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous comments which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the Government’s report and the detailed information provided by the Government in respect of the provisions of the Political Constitution of Bolivia, in its revised version of 1994, relating to labour matters. Moreover, the Government states that the Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprises has been requested to formulate employment policies, to give support to the study to evaluate measures to improve the organization of the employment market and to formulate policies to promote and develop small enterprises. In its previous comments, the Committee recalled that it had considered that many aspects of an active employment policy go beyond the immediate competence of the Ministry responsible for labour questions, so that the preparation of a full report on the Convention may require consultation with the other ministerial or government agencies concerned, such as those, for example, who are responsible for planning, economic affairs and statistics. The Committee, therefore, hopes that the Government will provide a detailed report with full information as required by the report form for the Convention and, in particular, the measures adopted to ensure that the objectives of an active employment policy are taken into consideration when determining other economic and social objectives. The Committee trusts that the Government will make every effort to provide, in its next detailed report on the application of the Convention, the statistical data concerning the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extent of unemployment, which is an indispensable stage in the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy, as laid down in Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

2. Moreover, the Committee hopes that, in its next report, the Government will be able to include data in respect of the results achieved as a consequence of the measures intended to satisfy the needs of the most disadvantaged categories of workers who have difficulty in retaining their employment or in obtaining lasting employment, such as workers who are affected by administrative restructuring or rationalization of industries, women, young people, the disabled or the long-term unemployed. Please indicate the effect achieved by the measures provided for within the framework of regional and local programmes for strengthening small enterprises and other employment programmes.

3. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would provide information, in its next report, in respect of the measures to coordinate education and vocational training policies with the employment policy, to ensure that each worker shall have the fullest opportunity to qualify for and use his/her skills and endowments in a job for which he/she is well suited.

4. Finally, the Committee again notes that, despite the numerous requests made by the Committee and the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards, the Government has not provided information in respect of the consultations concerning employment policy to discuss the measures to be taken with a view to taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons consulted and, furthermore, in obtaining their full cooperation in the task of formulating and enlisting the necessary support for the implementation of such a policy. The consultations with the representatives of the persons concerned should include representatives of workers’ and employers’ organizations and also representatives from other sectors of the economically active population such as those working in the rural and informal sectors. The Committee trusts that the Government will include the detailed information required by the report form in respect of Article 3 of the Convention in its next report.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2000, published 89th ILC session (2001)

The Committee again notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous comments which read as follows:

1.  The Committee notes the Government’s report and the detailed information provided by the Government in respect of the provisions of the Political Constitution of Bolivia, in its revised version of 1994, relating to labour matters. Moreover, the Government states that the Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprises has been requested to formulate employment policies, to give support to the study to evaluate measures to improve the organization of the employment market and to formulate policies to promote and develop small enterprises. In its previous comments, the Committee recalled that it had considered that many aspects of an active employment policy go beyond the immediate competence of the Ministry responsible for labour questions, so that the preparation of a full report on the Convention may require consultation with the other ministerial or government agencies concerned, such as those, for example, who are responsible for planning, economic affairs and statistics. The Committee, therefore, hopes that the Government will provide a detailed report with full information as required by the report form for the Convention and, in particular, the measures adopted to ensure that the objectives of an active employment policy are taken into consideration when determining other economic and social objectives. The Committee trusts that the Government will make every effort to provide, in its next detailed report on the application of the Convention, the statistical data concerning the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extent of unemployment, which is an indispensable stage in the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy, as laid down in Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

2.  Moreover, the Committee hopes that, in its next report, the Government will be able to include data in respect of the results achieved as a consequence of the measures intended to satisfy the needs of the most disadvantaged categories of workers who have difficulty in retaining their employment or in obtaining lasting employment, such as workers who are affected by administrative restructuring or rationalization of industries, women, young people, the disabled or the long-term unemployed. Please indicate the effect achieved by the measures provided for within the framework of regional and local programmes for strengthening small enterprises and other employment programmes.

3.  The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would provide information, in its next report, in respect of the measures to coordinate education and vocational training policies with the employment policy, to ensure that each worker shall have the fullest opportunity to qualify for and use his/her skills and endowments in a job for which he/she is well suited.

4.  Finally, the Committee again notes that, despite the numerous requests made by the Committee and the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards, the Government has not provided information in respect of the consultations concerning employment policy to discuss the measures to be taken with a view to taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons consulted and, furthermore, in obtaining their full cooperation in the task of formulating and enlisting the necessary support for the implementation of such a policy. The consultations with the representatives of the persons concerned should include representatives of workers’ and employers’ organizations and also representatives from other sectors of the economically active population such as those working in the rural and informal sectors. The Committee trusts that the Government will include the detailed information required by the report form in respect of Article 3 of the Conventionin its next report.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the Government's report and the detailed information provided by the Government in respect of the provisions of the Political Constitution of Bolivia, in its revised version of 1994, relating to labour matters. Moreover, the Government states that the Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprises has been requested to formulate employment policies, to give support to the study to evaluate measures to improve the organization of the employment market and to formulate policies to promote and develop small enterprises. In its previous comments, the Committee recalled that it had considered that many aspects of an active employment policy go beyond the immediate competence of the Ministry responsible for labour questions, so that the preparation of a full report on the Convention may require consultation with the other ministerial or government agencies concerned, such as those, for example, who are responsible for planning, economic affairs and statistics. The Committee, therefore, hopes that the Government will provide a detailed report with full information as required by the report form for the Convention and, in particular, the measures adopted to ensure that the objectives of an active employment policy are taken into consideration when determining other economic and social objectives. The Committee trusts that the Government will make every effort to provide, in its next detailed report on the application of the Convention, the statistical data concerning the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extent of unemployment, which is an indispensable stage in the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy, as laid down in Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

2. Moreover, the Committee hopes that, in its next report, the Government will be able to include data in respect of the results achieved as a consequence of the measures intended to satisfy the needs of the most disadvantaged categories of workers who have difficulty in retaining their employment or in obtaining lasting employment, such as workers who are affected by administrative restructuring or rationalization of industries, women, young people, the disabled or the long-term unemployed. Please indicate the effect achieved by the measures provided for within the framework of regional and local programmes for strengthening small enterprises and other employment programmes.

3. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would provide information, in its next report, in respect of the measures to coordinate education and vocational training policies with the employment policy, to ensure that each worker shall have the fullest opportunity to qualify for and use his/her skills and endowments in a job for which he/she is well suited.

4. Finally, the Committee again notes that, despite the numerous requests made by the Committee and the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards, the Government has not provided information in respect of the consultations concerning employment policy to discuss the measures to be taken with a view to taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons consulted and, furthermore, in obtaining their full cooperation in the task of formulating and enlisting the necessary support for the implementation of such a policy. The consultations with the representatives of the persons concerned should include representatives of workers' and employers' organizations and also representatives from other sectors of the economically active population such as those working in the rural and informal sectors. The Committee trusts that the Government will include the detailed information required by the report form in respect of Article 3 of the Convention in its next report.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

1. The Committee notes the Government's report and the detailed information provided by the Government in respect of the provisions of the Political Constitution of Bolivia, in its revised version of 1994, relating to labour matters. Moreover, the Government states that the Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprises has been requested to formulate employment policies, to give support to the study to evaluate measures to improve the organization of the employment market and to formulate policies to promote and develop small enterprises. In its previous comments, the Committee recalled that it had considered that many aspects of an active employment policy go beyond the immediate competence of the Ministry responsible for labour questions, so that the preparation of a full report on the Convention may require consultation with the other ministerial or government agencies concerned, such as those, for example, who are responsible for planning, economic affairs and statistics. The Committee, therefore, hopes that the Government will provide a detailed report with full information as required by the report form for the Convention and, in particular, the measures adopted to ensure that the objectives of an active employment policy are taken into consideration when determining other economic and social objectives. The Committee trusts that the Government will make every effort to provide, in its next detailed report on the application of the Convention, the statistical data concerning the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extent of unemployment, which is an indispensable stage in the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy, as laid down in Articles 1 and 2, of the Convention.

2. Moreover, the Committee hopes that, in its next report, the Government will be able to include data in respect of the results achieved as a consequence of the measures intended to satisfy the needs of the most disadvantaged categories of workers who have difficulty in retaining their employment or in obtaining lasting employment, such as workers who are affected by administrative restructuring or rationalization of industries, women, young people, the disabled or the long-term unemployed. Please indicate the effect achieved by the measures provided for within the framework of regional and local programmes for strengthening small enterprises and other employment programmes.

3. The Committee would also be grateful if the Government would provide information, in its next report, in respect of the measures to coordinate education and vocational training policies with the employment policy, to ensure that each worker shall have the fullest opportunity to qualify for and use his/her skills and endowments in a job for which he/she is well suited.

4. Finally, the Committee again notes that, despite the numerous requests made by the Committee and the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards, the Government has not provided information in respect of the consultations concerning employment policy to discuss the measures to be taken with a view to taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons consulted and, furthermore, in obtaining their full cooperation in the task of formulating and enlisting the necessary support for the implementation of such a policy. The consultations with the representatives of the persons concerned should include representatives of workers' and employers' organizations and also representatives from other sectors of the economically active population such as those working in the rural and informal sectors. The Committee trusts that the Government will include the detailed information required by the report form in respect of Article 3 of the Convention in its next report.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1997, published 86th ILC session (1998)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the Government's report for the period ending June 1994. In its previous comments, the Committee included a request for information on the situation, level and trends in employment, unemployment and underemployment, particularly with regard to the most vulnerable categories of the population such as women, young people seeking their first job, workers who have lost their jobs as a result of economic adjustment, indigenous peoples, etc. The Government states that it is not possible to satisfy such a request for the moment. Budgetary restrictions prevent the carrying out of regular censuses and/or surveys which would help to provide an overview of the labour market periodically and clearly. The Government states that it is the National Statistics Institute which prepares an annual integrated survey of households. In these circumstances, the Committee refers to the analysis and the statistical information transmitted by the ILO multidisciplinary technical team (MDT) in Lima. According to the data provided by the MDT, non-agricultural employment has increased rapidly during 1990-93, faster than demand, which resulted in the reduction of open urban unemployment (which fell by 7.3 per cent in 1990-91 to 5.8 per cent and 5.4 per cent in 1992 and 1993 respectively). Nevertheless, between 1990 and 1993, informal urban employment still continued to rise. Over 60 per cent of the urban economically active population is working in low productivity jobs or is unemployed. The Committee recalls that many aspects of an active employment policy lie beyond the competence of the minister responsible for labour so that preparation of a full report on this Convention requires consultations with other ministries or government agencies concerned such as those responsible for planning, the economy and statistics. In this respect, it would be appreciated if the Government's report could contain indications on the procedures adopted in order to take into account the objectives of an active employment policy in the light of the other economic and social objectives. The Committee trusts that the Government will do its utmost to ensure that, in its next report on the application of the Convention, statistical information can be supplied on the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extension of unemployment as an essential stage for the formulation and execution of an active employment policy, in the meaning of Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

2. The Government's report includes some indications on assistance given to persons affected by administrative restructuring who can receive allowances and grants from the Social Relief Fund. The Committee hopes that in its next report the Government will be able to supply detailed indications on the results achieved by the measures designed to satisfy the needs of the least privileged categories of persons who have difficulty in retaining their employment or in obtaining lasting employment such as workers affected by administrative restructuring or industrial rationalization, women, young people, the disabled, or the long-term unemployed. Please indicate the results obtained by the measures envisaged in the context of decentralization and popular participation for the execution of regional and local programmes for strengthening small business and other employment programmes.

3. The Committee recalls that in its previous comments it was able to welcome the information supplied by the Government on the activities of the National Institute of Vocational Education and Training (INFOCAL). It requests the Government to refer again in its next report to matters pertaining to the coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy which is essential so that all workers have the fullest possible opportunity to qualify for a job for which they are well suited and to use in this job their skills and endowments.

4. Finally, the Committee notes that the Government's report does not contain the information requested on several occasions, by the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards among others, on the consultations which should be held on employment policy. These consultations should discuss the measures which have to be adopted in relation to employment policy with the aim of taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons affected and, furthermore, obtaining their full cooperation in the task of formulating the policy concerned and enlisting the necessary support for its execution. The consultations with representatives of the persons affected might include representatives of employers and workers and also representatives of other sectors of the population such as those working in the rural sector and the informal sector. The Committee trusts that, bearing in mind the vital importance which it attributed in previous reports to agreement between the main social and economic agents, the Government will not fail to provide in its next report the details required by the report form under Article 3 of the Convention.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the Government's report for the period ending June 1994. In its previous comments, the Committee included a request for information on the situation, level and trends in employment, unemployment and underemployment, particularly with regard to the most vulnerable categories of the population such as women, young people seeking their first job, workers who have lost their jobs as a result of economic adjustment, indigenous peoples, etc. The Government states that it is not possible to satisfy such a request for the moment. Budgetary restrictions prevent the carrying out of regular censuses and/or surveys which would help to provide an overview of the labour market periodically and clearly. The Government states that it is the National Statistics Institute which prepares an annual integrated survey of households. In these circumstances, the Committee refers to the analysis and the statistical information transmitted by the ILO multidisciplinary technical team (MDT) in Lima. According to the data provided by the MDT, non-agricultural employment has increased rapidly during 1990-93, faster than demand, which resulted in the reduction of open urban unemployment (which fell by 7.3 per cent in 1990-91 to 5.8 per cent and 5.4 per cent in 1992 and 1993 respectively). Nevertheless, between 1990 and 1993, informal urban employment still continued to rise. Over 60 per cent of the urban economically active population is working in low productivity jobs or is unemployed. The Committee recalls that many aspects of an active employment policy lie beyond the competence of the minister responsible for labour so that preparation of a full report on this Convention requires consultations with other ministries or government agencies concerned such as those responsible for planning, the economy and statistics. In this respect, it would be appreciated if the Government's report could contain indications on the procedures adopted in order to take into account the objectives of an active employment policy in the light of the other economic and social objectives. The Committee trusts that the Government will do its utmost to ensure that, in its next report on the application of the Convention, statistical information can be supplied on the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extension of unemployment as an essential stage for the formulation and execution of an active employment policy, in the meaning of Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

2. The Government's report includes some indications on assistance given to persons affected by administrative restructuring who can receive allowances and grants from the Social Relief Fund. The Committee hopes that in its next report the Government will be able to supply detailed indications on the results achieved by the measures designed to satisfy the needs of the least privileged categories of persons who have difficulty in retaining their employment or in obtaining lasting employment such as workers affected by administrative restructuring or industrial rationalization, women, young people, the disabled, or the long-term unemployed. Please indicate the results obtained by the measures envisaged in the context of decentralization and popular participation for the execution of regional and local programmes for strengthening small business and other employment programmes.

3. The Committee recalls that in its previous comments it was able to welcome the information supplied by the Government on the activities of the National Institute of Vocational Education and Training (INFOCAL). It requests the Government to refer again in its next report to matters pertaining to the coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy which is essential so that all workers have the fullest possible opportunity to qualify for a job for which they are well suited and to use in this job their skills and endowments.

4. Finally, the Committee notes that the Government's report does not contain the information requested on several occasions, by the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards among others, on the consultations which should be held on employment policy. These consultations should discuss the measures which have to be adopted in relation to employment policy with the aim of taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons affected and, furthermore, obtaining their full cooperation in the task of formulating the policy concerned and enlisting the necessary support for its execution. The consultations with representatives of the persons affected might include representatives of employers and workers and also representatives of other sectors of the population such as those working in the rural sector and the informal sector. The Committee trusts that, bearing in mind the vital importance which it attributed in previous reports to agreement between the main social and economic agents, the Government will not fail to provide in its next report the details required by the report form under Article 3 of the Convention.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

1. The Committee notes the Government's report for the period ending June 1994. In its previous comments, the Committee included a request for information on the situation, level and trends in employment, unemployment and underemployment, particularly with regard to the most vulnerable categories of the population such as women, young people seeking their first job, workers who have lost their jobs as a result of economic adjustment, indigenous peoples, etc. The Government states that it is not possible to satisfy such a request for the moment. Budgetary restrictions prevent the carrying out of regular censuses and/or surveys which would help to provide an overview of the labour market periodically and clearly. The Government states that it is the National Statistics Institute which prepares an annual integrated survey of households. In these circumstances, the Committee refers to the analysis and the statistical information transmitted by the ILO multidisciplinary technical team (MDT) in Lima. According to the data provided by the MDT, non-agricultural employment has increased rapidly during 1990-93, faster than demand, which resulted in the reduction of open urban unemployment (which fell by 7.3 per cent in 1990-91 to 5.8 per cent and 5.4 per cent in 1992 and 1993 respectively). Nevertheless, between 1990 and 1993, informal urban employment still continued to rise. Over 60 per cent of the urban economically active population is working in low productivity jobs or is unemployed. The Committee recalls that many aspects of an active employment policy lie beyond the competence of the minister responsible for labour so that preparation of a full report on this Convention requires consultations with other ministries or government agencies concerned such as those responsible for planning, the economy and statistics. In this respect, it would be appreciated if the Government's report could contain indications on the procedures adopted in order to take into account the objectives of an active employment policy in the light of the other economic and social objectives. The Committee trusts that the Government will do its utmost to ensure that, in its next report on the application of the Convention, statistical information can be supplied on the size and distribution of the labour force and the nature and extension of unemployment as an essential stage for the formulation and execution of an active employment policy, in the meaning of Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention.

2. The Government's report includes some indications on assistance given to persons affected by administrative restructuring who can receive allowances and grants from the Social Relief Fund. The Committee hopes that in its next report the Government will be able to supply detailed indications on the results achieved by the measures designed to satisfy the needs of the least privileged categories of persons who have difficulty in retaining their employment or in obtaining lasting employment such as workers affected by administrative restructuring or industrial rationalization, women, young people, the disabled, or the long-term unemployed. Please indicate the results obtained by the measures envisaged in the context of decentralization and popular participation for the execution of regional and local programmes for strengthening small business and other employment programmes.

3. The Committee recalls that in its previous comments it was able to welcome the information supplied by the Government on the activities of the National Institute of Vocational Education and Training (INFOCAL). It requests the Government to refer again in its next report to matters pertaining to the coordination of education and vocational training policies with employment policy which is essential so that all workers have the fullest possible opportunity to qualify for a job for which they are well suited and to use in this job their skills and endowments.

4. Finally, the Committee notes that the Government's report does not contain the information requested on several occasions, by the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards among others, on the consultations which should be held on employment policy. These consultations should discuss the measures which have to be adopted in relation to employment policy with the aim of taking fully into account the experience and views of the persons affected and, furthermore, obtaining their full cooperation in the task of formulating the policy concerned and enlisting the necessary support for its execution. The consultations with representatives of the persons affected might include representatives of employers and workers and also representatives of other sectors of the population such as those working in the rural sector and the informal sector. The Committee trusts that, bearing in mind the vital importance which it attributed in previous reports to agreement between the main social and economic agents, the Government will not fail to provide in its next report the details required by the report form under Article 3 of the Convention.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

1. The Committee notes the Government's report for the period ending June 1992, which contains a general statement concerning economic development in Bolivia, the Government's objectives and a number of references to vocational training activities. The Government states that the impact of structural adjustment is beginning to be felt and that economic growth is creating more jobs and producing a marked decrease in the unemployment rate which, according to the data from the National Statistical Institute, is 5.8 per cent. The Committee points out that the Government recognizes the difficulties persisting as a result of accumulated structural imbalances. A considerable part of the population has not enjoyed the benefits of progress: marginal categories of the population in rural and urban areas are experiencing conditions of extreme poverty and call for urgent attention. The Government adds that the objectives of the current plan include recapitalization of public enterprises, providing greater incentives for investment in production, generating employment and increasing the skills of the population. The Committee takes due note that the Government proposes, between 1994 and 1997, to generate 287,452 new jobs and trusts that in its next report it will indicate the extent to which the employment objectives which it has set have been achieved. The Committee refers once again to its previous comments in which it emphasized the need to provide the detailed information required by the report form on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, particularly with regard to the most vulnerable categories of the population, such as women, young people seeking their first job, workers who have lost their jobs as a result of economic adjustment, indigenous peoples, etc. The Committee would wish to be in a position to fully evaluate, on the basis of the information supplied by the Government in its next report, the manner in which as a "major goal" an "active" policy designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment has been set forth and implemented "within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy" (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention).

2. Article 3. The Committee notes that the Government considers it of vital importance, at this stage of the consolidation of democracy and economic stability, to conclude an agreement between the major social and economic partners, the basis of which is set out in the "Plan For All". With reference once again to its previous comments, in which it noted the comments made by workers' organizations and the discussions held in the Conference Committee, the Committee urges the Government to supply in its next detailed report the information required by the report form concerning the consultations with the representatives of the persons affected by the employment policy. These consultations should have the objective of taking fully into account their experiences and views and securing their full cooperation in formulating and enlisting support for the employment policy. The Committee would be particularly grateful to receive information on the manner in which it has been possible to give effect to its previous comments regarding consultations held with representatives of employers' and workers' organizations, and with representatives of other sectors of the economically active population, such as those working in the rural sector and the informal sector, and those who have been affected by structural adjustment measures.

3. In its previous comments, the Committee noted with interest the information supplied by the Government on the activities of the National Institute of Vocational Education and Training (INFOCAL). It notes that the above Institute continues to achieve satisfactory results: between 1989 and 1992, an annual average of 4,142 persons received training. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would include information in its next report on the manner in which the persons who have been trained by INFOCAL, as well as by other projects in progress, some of which are receiving assistance from the international community, have been able to find lasting employment, and on the other measures which are envisaged to coordinate education and vocational training policies with prospective employment opportunities.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1993, published 80th ILC session (1993)

1. With reference to its previous observation, the Committee took note of the information provided at the 79th Session of the Conference (June 1992) and the discussion at the Conference Committee. It also notes a communication dated 4 August 1992 from the Trade Union Federation of Bolivian Mineworkers (FSTMB) referring to massive layoffs by the Bolivian Mining Company (COMIBOL). The above union considers that the Government, by closing workplaces under pretext of restructuring public enterprises and in order to satisfy the demands of the World Bank and the IMF, is exacerbating unemployment. In its reply to these allegations, dated 2 March 1993, the Government indicates that COMIBOL is on the verge of bankruptcy and that, owing to the lack of financial resources and technology, it is impossible to maintain an enterprise which is running at a loss. It states that it is none the less seeking to preserve jobs, in particular by setting up joint venture enterprises under the 1990 Investment Act. The Government also states that only 321 workers had to leave the enterprise between January and September 1992.

2. The Committee notes that the Government representative informed the Conference Committee that a census had been conducted which would make it possible for the report to give the statistical data requested concerning the volume and distribution of labour, and the nature, extent and trends of unemployment and underemployment. The Committee also notes that the Workers' members stressed the need to formulate and apply an active employment policy, in consultation with the social partners, particularly at a time of recession and structural readjustment. The Workers' members concluded that, although investment growth is fundamental for the level of employment, investment must always be accompanied by the social dimension which only the Government can promote. The Employers' members considered that, in evaluating employment policy, factors such as monetary stabilization measures should be taken into account. They stressed the benefits of medium- and long-term measures, such as investment in vocational training.

3. The Committee notes with regret that the report due in 1992 has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied by the Government for examination by the Committee at its next meeting. It trusts that the report will contain, in addition to the statistics which the Government has undertaken to supply, full information in reply to its previous observation. The Committee asks the Government, in particular, to indicate the manner in which an active policy is pursued to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment (Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention), to supply the texts defining it, and to describe the procedures adopted to ensure that at both the planning and the implementation stage, the effects on employment of the measures adopted to promote economic development are taken into consideration (Article 2). The Committee also asks the Government to provide information on how it is endeavouring to consult representatives of all the persons affected by employment policy, including representatives of the rural and informal sectors, in order to take full account of their experience and views (Article 3). Lastly, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would continue to provide information on the results obtained by the National Institute of Vocational Education and Training (INFOCAL) in improving coordination of vocational education and training policies with employment prospects, stating in particular the measures taken as a result of technical assistance or advice received in the context of ILO technical cooperation projects (Part V of the report form.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

1. The Committee takes note of the information supplied by the Government in reply to its previous comments. The Government recalls that, in order to maintain and consolidate its monetary stabilisation policy, initiated at the end of 1985, while meeting the commitments of its external debt contracted in the seventies, it is implementing economic measures to reduce unemployment and open underemployment, which are consistent with national legislation and the standards of the Convention, and the proposals set out in the Employment Policy (Supplementary Provisions) Recommendation, 1984 (No. 169). Under the Emergency Social Fund, 1,932 projects for social assistance, basic urban services, economic infrastructure and production support were carried out in the second half of 1988, involving a total investment of 92,211 dollars and 19,892 persons. As regards the workers affected by structural adjustment measures, the Government states that many of them joined the informal sector. The Government also refers to a new Act respecting investment, promulgated on 17 January 1990 which, it hopes, will generate employment, as it considers that employment is directly linked to the investment of capital.

2. In view of the unemployment rate published by the ILO in the Year Book of Labour Statistics (an estimated 20 per cent in 1989 and 19 per cent in 1990), the Committee can but hope that the Government's efforts will succeed in creating productive employment. The Committee wishes to recall, as it has in earlier comments, that Paragraph 37(h) of Recommendation No. 169 proposes that, when adopting structural adjustment measures, governments should take into account the promotion of employment and the satisfaction of the basic needs of the population. They should declare and pursue "as a major goal", an active policy designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment (Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention). The Committee would be grateful if, in its next report, the Government would indicate how such a policy has been formulated, specifying the texts in which it has been defined, and describe the procedures adopted to ensure that the effects on employment of measures taken to promote economic development receive due consideration at both the planning and the implementation stages (Article 2).

3. In reply to the Committee's previous observation, the Government states that consultations with the most representative organisations of employers and workers are held at every possible opportunity to solve employment, wages and other problems of workers particularly those in the urban areas. Consultations are held on a lesser scale in the rural and informal sectors. The Government adds that despite the fact that the informal sector is gradually growing, the workforce is not organised as it is in urban centres owing to numerous factors which are inherent in its location. The Committee recalls that, as regards employment policy, Article 3 of the Convention requires "the representatives of the persons affected" to be consulted, including those working in the urban, rural and informal sectors. The Committee therefore trusts that the Government will endeavour to take full account of the experiences and opinions of all sectors affected by employment policy measures.

4. The Committee notes with interest the information supplied by the Government on the establishment and operation of a National Institute of Vocational Education and Training (INFOCAL), by virtue of Supreme Decree No. 22105, of 29 December 1988. The above institution has a tripartite governing body and eight regional centres. INFOCAL is a member of the Inter-American Centre for Research and Documentation on Vocational Training (CINTERFOR), which is an ILO agency for Latin America and the Caribbean. In its General Survey of 1991, Human Resources Development, the Committee stressed the importance of a close link between technical and vocational education and training - such as that provided by INFOCAL - with employment prospects. It asks the Government to continue to provide information on the results obtained by INFOCAL in coordinating vocational education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities, giving particulars of action undertaken as a result of technical assistance or advice provided by the Office and its agencies (Part V of the report form).

5. The Committee asks the Government in its next report, to provide extracts of reports, studies and inquiries, statistical data, etc., on the size and distribution of the labour force, the nature, extent and trends of unemployment and underemployment, manpower projections, incomes and poverty, technological change, and the impact on employment of economic and social policy measures (Part VI of the report form).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1991, published 78th ILC session (1991)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. The Committee refers to its observation and once again requests the Government to supply with its next report information of the type requested under Part VI of the report form. It also requests it to supply detailed information on the following aspects of the application of the Convention:

1. The Committee notes the information on the impact on industrial production and manufacturing of the system of the free import of goods and services established by Supreme Decree No. 21060 of August 1985. Please specify, in so far as possible, its impact on the creation of productive employment.

2. The Committee notes the information supplied on the number of workers in public sector enterprises who have been reclassified and reintegrated into the labour market. Please continue supplying information on the staff rationalisation programmes in the Bolivian Grain Corporation and the National Motor Transport Board.

3. Please continue supplying information on the generation of productive employment through the activities of the Emergency Social Fund and the subprogramme for the improvement and construction of social housing, and by the project to "promote the use of human and regional resources".

4. Please specify the number of concessions accorded by the Bolivian Mining Corporation (COMIBOL) to co-operatives (section 24 of Supreme Decree No. 21377 of 1986) and their impact on employment in the mining sector.

5. The Committee notes the termination of subsidies by the State and employers' organisations to the Manpower Training Department, which is now within more realistic financial limits, formulating a training programme for priority production sectors. Please describe the programmes and policies adopted with regard to vocational training and the measures that are planned to co-ordinate education and training policies with employment prospects.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 1991, published 78th ILC session (1991)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in reply to its previous comments. The Government recalls that, as a result of the world-wide crisis which began in 1980, and the fall in the international prices of minerals, there was a serious deterioration in the national balance of payments and a drastic reduction in income from taxation, which obliged the Government to take economic, fiscal and monetary measures to combat the serious situation. The Government repeats that it will implement emergency employment programmes including an active employment policy as referred to in Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention and in accordance with the measures proposed in the Employment Policy (Supplementary Provisions) Recommendation, 1984 (No. 169). The Government refers in particular to the Emergency Social Fund through which employment generation measures in urban and rural areas were financed, in order to implement such projects for the sectors most affected by economic restructuring.

2. The Committee notes that the major success of the stabilisation policy pursued by the authorities since the end of 1985 has been to control hyper-inflation. Nevertheless, the Committee notes with concern that, according to the information available in the Office, unemployment has increased steadily, and it can be estimated that one-fifth of the economically active population was unemployed or underemployed at the end of 1987. The informal sector has absorbed some of the workers who lost their employment as a consequence of the rationalisation measures carried out in the public sector: for example, according to the Government, a total of 23,000 workers were redeployed from the Bolivian Mining Corporation (COMIBOL) of whom 8,000 chose to enter the rural or informal sectors. Furthermore, it appears from the Government's report that the economic crisis has resulted in reductions in vocational training programmes.

3. The Committee once again trusts that the Government will declare and pursue, in accordance with Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention, "an active policy designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment". In this connection, the Committee recalls Paragraph 37(h) of Recommendation No. 169, which provides that, when adopting adjustment policies, governments should ensure that they promote employment and the satisfaction of basic needs. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply detailed information in its next report on the results achieved by employment programmes.

4. Article 3. In reply to its previous observation, the Government indicates that formal consultation procedures with representatives of employers' and workers' organisations will be gradually introduced as a function of the subsidies provided to enterprises. It states that consultations with representatives of the economically active population, such as those working in the rural and informal sectors, will be deferred until reliable representatives are found, since at present it is difficult to identify, quantify, or localise them, etc.: it is impossible for the State to know what their needs and requirements are in order to be able to give its support or implement its projects. The Committee again observes that in general the provisions of the Convention and of Recommendations Nos. 122 and 169 on employment policy do not provide for the postponement or suspension of consultations; the consultations provided for in the Convention should not be limited to matters of employment policy in the narrow sense, but should be extended to all aspects of economic policy which affect employment. Furthermore, in addition to providing for consultations in the formulation of employment policies, the instruments also envisage obtaining the co-operation of representatives of employers and workers in the implementation of this policy (see paragraphs 96 and 100 of the Committee's General Survey of 1972). The Committee therefore trusts that the Government will supply detailed information in its next report on the holding of the consultations required under Article 3 of the Convention.

5. The Government refers in its report to the technical assistance projects submitted to the ILO concerning the organisation of a labour census, the improvement of working conditions and employment in the mining and rural sectors, and employment creation. The Committee hopes that, taking into account the matters raised above, technical assistance projects will receive the necessary financial support for their implementation in order to assist the Government in promoting the application of the provisions of this Convention. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would continue supplying detailed information on the action that is taken and the results that are achieved by projects undertaken with the assistance and assessment of the ILO in order to resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment (Part V of the report form). 6. In a direct request, the Committee is asking for other information on the application of the Convention.

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

The Committee refers to its observation and once again requests the Government to supply with its next report information of the type requested under Part VI of the report form. It also requests it to supply detailed information on the following aspects of the application of the Convention:

1. The Committee notes the information on the impact on industrial production and manufacturing of the system of the free import of goods and services established by Supreme Decree No. 21060 of August 1985. Please specify, in so far as possible, its impact on the creation of productive employment.

2. The Committee notes the information supplied on the number of workers in public sector enterprises who have been reclassified and reintegrated into the labour market. Please continue supplying information on the staff rationalisation programmes in the Bolivian Grain Corporation and the National Motor Transport Board.

3. Please continue supplying information on the generation of productive employment through the activities of the Emergency Social Fund and the subprogramme for the improvement and construction of social housing, and by the project to "promote the use of human and regional resources".

4. Please specify the number of concessions accorded by the Bolivian Mining Corporation (COMIBOL) to co-operatives (section 24 of Supreme Decree No. 21377 of 1986) and their impact on employment in the mining sector.

5. The Committee notes the termination of subsidies by the State and employers' organisations to the Manpower Training Department, which is now within more realistic financial limits, formulating a training programme for priority production sectors. Please describe the programmes and policies adopted with regard to vocational training and the measures that are planned to co-ordinate education and training policies with employment prospects.

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

1. The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in reply to its previous comments. The Government recalls that, as a result of the world-wide crisis which began in 1980, and the fall in the international prices of minerals, there was a serious deterioration in the national balance of payments and a drastic reduction in income from taxation, which obliged the Government to take economic, fiscal and monetary measures to combat the serious situation. The Government repeats that it will implement emergency employment programmes including an active employment policy as referred to in Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention and in accordance with the measures proposed in the Employment Policy (Supplementary Provisions) Recommendation, 1984 (No. 169). The Government refers in particular to the Emergency Social Fund through which employment generation measures in urban and rural areas were financed, in order to implement such projects for the sectors most affected by economic restructuring.

2. The Committee notes that the major success of the stabilisation policy pursued by the authorities since the end of 1985 has been to control hyper-inflation: indeed, the inflation rate has been reduced from 2,800 per cent to 15 per cent. Nevertheless, the Committee notes with concern that, according to the information available in the Office, unemployment has increased steadily, and it can be estimated that one-fifth of the economically active population was unemployed or underemployed at the end of 1987. The informal sector has absorbed some of the workers who lost their employment as a consequence of the rationalisation measures carried out in the public sector: for example, according to the Government, a total of 23,000 workers were redeployed from the Bolivian Mining Corporation (COMIBOL) of whom 8,000 chose to enter the rural or informal sectors. Furthermore, it appears from the Government's report that the economic crisis has resulted in reductions in vocational training programmes.

3. The Committee once again trusts that the Government will declare and pursue, in accordance with Article 1, paragraph 1, of the Convention, "an active policy designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment". In this connection, the Committee recalls Paragraph 37(h) of Recommendation No. 169, which provides that, when adopting adjustment policies, governments should ensure that they promote employment and the satisfaction of basic needs. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply detailed information in its next report on the results achieved by employment programmes.

4. Article 3. In reply to its previous observation, the Government indicates that formal consultation procedures with representatives of employers' and workers' organisations will be gradually introduced as a function of the subsidies provided to enterprises. It states that consultations with representatives of the economically active population, such as those working in the rural and informal sectors, will be deferred until reliable representatives are found, since at present it is difficult to identify, quantify, or localise them, etc.: it is impossible for the State to know what their needs and requirements are in order to be able to give its support or implement its projects. The Committee again observes that in general the provisions of the Convention and of Recommendations Nos. 122 and 169 on employment policy do not provide for the postponement or suspension of consultations; the consultations provided for in the Convention should not be limited to matters of employment policy in the narrow sense, but should be extended to all aspects of economic policy which affect employment. Furthermore, in addition to providing for consultations in the formulation of employment policies, the instruments also envisage obtaining the co-operation of representatives of employers and workers in the implementation of this policy (see paragraphs 96 and 100 of the Committee's General Survey of 1972). The Committee therefore trusts that the Government will supply detailed information in its next report on the holding of the consultations required under Article 3 of the Convention.

5. The Government refers in its report to the technical assistance projects submitted to the ILO concerning the organisation of a labour census, the improvement of working conditions and employment in the mining and rural sectors, and employment creation. The Committee hopes that, taking into account the matters raised above, technical assistance projects will receive the necessary financial support for their implementation in order to assist the Government in promoting the application of the provisions of this Convention. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would continue supplying detailed information on the action that is taken and the results that are achieved by projects undertaken with the assistance and assessment of the ILO in order to resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment (Part V of the report form).

6. In a direct request, the Committee is asking for other information on the application of the Convention.