Compilation of decisions of the Committee on Freedom of Association

Trade union and employers organizations rights and civil liberties2

Questions of a political nature affecting trade union and employers organizations rights

1. It is important to distinguish between the evolution of a countrys political institutions and matters relating to the exercise of freedom of association, if, as was emphasized by the International Labour Conference in 1970 in the resolution concerning trade union rights and their relation to civil liberties, respect for freedom of association is closely bound up with respect for civil liberties. In general, workers and employers organizations nevertheless have their own specific functions to perform, irrespective of the countrys political system.

1. Measures which, although of a political nature and not intended to restrict trade union rights as such, may nevertheless be applied in such a manner as to affect the exercise of such rights.

1. As stated by the International Labour Conference in 1970, although respect for freedom of association is closely bound up with respect for civil liberties in general, it is nevertheless important to distinguish between the recognition of freedom of association and questions relating to a countrys political evolution.

1. Political matters which do not impair the exercise of freedom of association are outside the competence of the Committee. The Committee is not competent to deal with a complaint that is based on subversive acts, and it is likewise incompetent to deal with political matters that may be referred to in a governments reply.