Labour Inspection Convention, 1947 (No. 81) - Burundi (Ratification: 1971)

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2024, published 113rd ILC session (2025)

The Committee notes the observations of the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU) and the Government’s reply, received in 2018. The Committee also notes the observations made by the COSYBU received in 2022 and 2023.

Article 3 of the Convention. Duties of labour inspectors. Further to its previous comments in this regard, the Committee notes that the Labour Code, as revised in 2020, still contains provisions respecting the role of labour inspectors in resolving individual and collective labour disputes, including in section 477 and sections 485 to 489. Moreover, section 8 of Decree No. 100/014 of 18 January 2021 on the duties, organization and functioning of the General Labour and Social Security Inspectorate provides that the duties of labour inspection include the prevention and conciliation of individual and collective labour disputes between the social partners. The Committee further notes that, according to the COSYBU, there has been no positive change in the time devoted by inspectors to their functions in relation to the resolution of disputes and that labour inspectors do not discharge their duties as set out in Article 3(1) in an appropriate manner. Recalling that duties relating to the settlement of disputes are not included in the primary duties of labour inspectors, as set out in Article 3(1) of the Convention, the Committee requests the Government to indicate the time and resources devoted by labour inspectors to their primary duties, in proportion to those allocated to the resolution of disputes. In the absence of this information, the Committee once again requests the Government to take all the necessary measures to ensure that the duties of labour inspectors in relation to the resolution of disputes do not interfere with the performance of their primary duties.

Article 5(b). Collaboration with employers and workers or their organizations. The COSYBU indicates in its observations that, with the exception of the agro-food sector, there is no framework for collaboration between the labour inspection services and employers’ and workers’ organizations. Nevertheless, the Committee notes the indication in the Government’s report that the labour inspectorate is represented in tripartite bodies such as the National Labour Council and the National Social Dialogue Council. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on how this collaboration is implemented in practice. It requests the Government to continue its efforts to strengthen collaboration frameworks between the labour inspection services and employers and workers or their organizations.

Articles 6, 7 and 10. Recruitment and training of sufficient numbers of labour inspectors.Conditions of service of labour inspectors. Further to its previous comments, the Committee takes due note of the Government’s indication that the number of labour inspectors has increased from 20 inspectors in 2018 to 33 in 2023. However, the Committee notes that, according to the Government, the numbers of inspectors are still insufficient. The Government adds that difficulties arise in the application of the Convention related to the scarcity of training and capacity-building for labour inspectors. The Committee notes that the COSYBU considers in its observations that labour inspectors do not receive appropriate training and that labour inspectors do not enjoy conditions of service that assure them of stability of employment and independence from any changes of government and from improper external influences. The Committee therefore requests the Government to take the necessary measures to remedy the difficulties identified in relation to the recruitment and training of labour inspectors. It requests the Government to continue providing information on the recruitment of sufficient numbers of labour inspectors and the measures adopted to facilitate their training, including the nature of any training envisaged, the number of participants and the duration of the training.

Articles 10, 11 and 16. Material resources and inspection visits. Further to its previous comments on the lack of means of transport and material resources, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that it ensures the travel of inspectors and their material resources when they go to their workplace, but that the material and financial resources of the inspection services are still inadequate. The Government adds that there are not sufficient means of transport. The Committee further notes that COSYBU stands by its previous observations concerning the insufficiency of the material resources allocated to labour inspectors to inspect all the services and enterprises in the country and that it considers that inspection visits are rare. The Committee therefore requests the Government to continue taking all the measures at its disposal to ensure that labour inspectors have the necessary material resources and means of transport so that workplaces are inspected as often and as thoroughly as necessary, in accordance with Article 16 of the Convention. It requests the Government to provide further information on the measures adopted in this regard.

Articles 17 and 18. Prompt legal proceedings without previous notice. Penalties. The Committee notes that, in accordance with section 423 of the Labour Code, where necessary, labour and social security inspectors can call on the forces of order for the discharge of their duties and are empowered to refer matters directly to the competent judicial authorities. However, section 434 of the Labour Code provides that physician labour inspectors do not have the power to issue violation notices or warnings. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that labour inspectors do not impose penalties in practice and tend instead to persuade employers to comply with their notices through follow-up visits. Moreover, the COSYBU considers in its observations that labour inspectors do not make sufficient use of their authority under Article 17 of the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to take measures to ensure that, in accordance with Article 18 of the Convention, the penalties envisaged by the national legislation for the violation of legal provisions or for obstructing labour inspectors in the performance of their duties are applied effectively. The Committee also requests the Government to provide further information on the effect given in practice to section 423 of the Labour Code and to provide statistical data on the number of penalties imposed by labour inspectors in response to the violations identified.

Articles 20 and 21. Annual labour inspection report. The Committee notes that, in accordance with section 432 of the Labour Code, the general labour and social security inspection authority publishes each year a general report on the work of the services under its authority. In the absence of such a report, the Committee reiterates its request to the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that the central authority publishes an annual report on the work of the labour inspection services containing information on the matters set out in Article 21(a) to (g) of the Convention. It once again requests the Government to take the necessary measures for this report to be communicated to the ILO in the form and within the time limits set out in Article 20.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2017, published 107th ILC session (2018)

The Committee notes the observations of the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU) received in 2015 regarding the lack of material resources of the labour inspection services.

Article 3 of the Convention. Duties of labour inspectors. The Committee notes that, in reply to its previous request regarding the need to ensure, as established in Article 3(2), that any further duties entrusted to labour inspectors do not interfere with the effective performance of their primary duties, the Government merely reiterates that, in addition to the duties of labour inspection set out in section 156 of the Labour Code (which correspond to the primary duties set out in Article 3(1) of the Convention), inspectors are responsible for resolving labour disputes. The Committee notes that these additional duties regarding the resolution of disputes are provided for in sections 181 et seq. (individual disputes) and 191 et seq. (collective disputes) of the Labour Code. It recalls that, according to its most recent analysis of available information, in practice the labour inspectorate has deviated from its primary role and is focused on dispute resolution. In the absence of information demonstrating that this trend has been reversed, the Committee urges the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that the additional duties entrusted to labour inspectors, particularly for the settlement of disputes, do not interfere with the performance of their primary duties as specified in Article 3(1). It also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken in this regard and on the time and resources dedicated by labour inspectors to their various duties.

Article 7. Recruitment and training of labour inspectors. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the specific duties of labour inspectors are not taken into account in their recruitment and that labour inspectors received training until 2014. The Committee recalls that under Article 7, labour inspectors shall be recruited with sole regard to their qualifications for the performance of their duties and shall be adequately trained for the performance of their duties. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to improve recruitment and to ensure adequate and continued training of inspectors.

Article 10. Sufficient numbers of labour inspectors. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government regarding the composition of staff of the labour inspectorate (11 labour inspectors responsible for the monitoring of the application of legal and regulatory provisions and the resolution of labour disputes and three labour controllers responsible for gathering labour statistics). The Committee recalls that, under Article 10, the human resources assigned to the inspection services must be determined on the basis of relevant information, and particularly: the number, nature, size and situation of the enterprises or establishments liable to inspection; the number and classes of workers employed in these enterprises or establishments; and the number and the complexity of the legal provisions to be enforced. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on this subject.

Articles 11 and 16. Material resources and inspection visits. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in reply to its previous request regarding the resources available to labour inspectors for the performance of their duties. In this regard, the Government emphasizes that inspections are not carried out as thoroughly as necessary because the labour inspectors do not have sufficient means of transport and material resources. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to improve the means of transport and material resources available to inspectors for the effective performance of their duties and to provide information on the measures taken in this respect.

Articles 20 and 21. Annual inspection report. The Committee notes that the annual report has not been communicated to the ILO. The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that the central inspection authority publishes an annual report on the work of the inspection services under its control, containing information on the matters set out in Article 21(a)–(g) of the Convention, and that this report is communicated to the ILO in the form and within the time limits set out in Article 20.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2015, published 105th ILC session (2016)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It expresses deep concern in this respect. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

Repetition

The Committee notes the observations of the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU) received on 26 September 2014. It also refers to the observations of the COSYBU, dated 30 August 2012, concerning the insufficient material means provided to labour inspectors in order to promote Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in the workplace. The Committee requests the Government to provide the relevant information in this respect.

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3(1) of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. The information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken of its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have led to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3(1) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

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

The Committee notes the observations of the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU) received on 26 September 2014.

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous comments.

The Committee notes the observations of the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU), dated 30 August 2012, concerning the insufficient material means provided to labour inspectors in order to promote Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in the workplace. The Committee requests the Government to provide the relevant information in this respect.

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3(1) of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. The information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken of its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have led to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3(1)) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

The Committee notes the comments of the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU) dated 30 August 2013, stating that it upholds the comments it made last year and shares the Committee’s opinion on the subject of this Convention.

The Committee refers to its comments made in this respect and notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the report sent by the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU), dated 30 August 2012, concerning the insufficient material means provided to labour inspectors in order to promote Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in the workplace. The Committee requests the Government to provide the relevant information in this respect.

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3(1) of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. The information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken of its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions. According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have led to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3(1)) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

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

The Committee notes the report sent by the Trade Union Confederation of Burundi (COSYBU) dated 30 August 2012 concerning the insufficient material means provided to labour inspectors in order to promote Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) in the workplace. The Committee requests the Government to provide the relevant information in this respect.

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:

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee had observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3(1) of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. This information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken off its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have lead to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3(1)) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). It expresses the hope that appropriate financial support will soon be granted through international cooperation to this end. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

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:

Repetition

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee had observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3(1) of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. This information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken off its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have lead to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3(1)) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). It expresses the hope that appropriate financial support will soon be granted through international cooperation to this end. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

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:

The Committee takes note of the little information contained in the Government’s report and further clarifications received in the ILO on 4 September 2006.

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee had observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3(1) of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. This information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken off its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have lead to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3(1)) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). It expresses the hope that appropriate financial support will soon be granted through international cooperation to this end. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

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

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous observation, which read as follows:

The Committee takes note of the little information contained in the Government’s report and further clarifications received in the ILO on 4 September 2006.

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee had observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3(1) of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. This information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken off its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have lead to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3(1)) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). It expresses the hope that appropriate financial support will soon be granted through international cooperation to this end. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

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

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

The Committee takes note of the little information contained in the Government’s report and further clarifications received in the ILO on 4 September 2006.

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee had observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. This information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken off its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have lead to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3, paragraph 1) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). It expresses the hope that appropriate financial support will soon be granted through international cooperation to this end. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

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

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

The Committee takes note of the little information contained in the Government’s report and further clarifications received in the ILO on 4 September 2006.

Primary duties of labour inspectorates. In its previous comments the Committee had observed that labour inspectorates’ activities focused mainly on dispute resolution issues, instead of activities aiming at the enforcement function provided for by Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention. Its appreciation was based on the reports on 2000 and 2001 first-quarter labour inspection activities, showing also the performing of a huge amount of administrative tasks. The Committee notes that five out of the nine inspectors are entrusted with collective dispute resolution issues, only three others dealing with control of conditions of work, though all of them have participated in a seminar organized by the Programme for promoting social dialogue in African French-speaking countries (PRODIAF) on proceedings relating to labour dispute resolution, during the first quarter of 2006. This information confirms that labour inspection continues to be taken off its main role to be put on labour dispute resolution missions.

According to the Government, the absence of a special status, the lack of means of transport, of qualifications and of technical equipment seem to have lead to a lack of confidence from the employers towards labour inspectors.

The Committee once again stresses that it is necessary for labour inspectors to focus on the enforcement of legal provisions on labour conditions and protection of workers while engaged in their work (Article 3, paragraph 1) and that any further duties entrusted to them should not interfere with the effective discharge of their primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers (paragraph 2). It also recalls the Government’s obligation of the competent authority to take measures to make available to labour inspectors the necessary means, such as transport facilities where no appropriate public transport facilities exist and reimbursement of any travelling and incidental expenses which may be necessary for the performance of their duties (Article 11). It expresses the hope that appropriate financial support will soon be granted through international cooperation to this end. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate any steps taken and any progress achieved in this regard and communicate in the nearest future any available report on labour inspection activities in industrial and commercial workplaces, concerning the application of legal provisions on conditions of work and protection of workers.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the following points:

The Committee observes that the activities of the labour inspection service focus chiefly on the settlement of labour disputes and, secondarily, on activities linked to the main functions as set out in Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention. The Government is requested to supply information on the manner in which it is ensured, in accordance with paragraph 2 of the same Article, that duties such as the settlement of labour conflicts and the formulation of draft laws and regulations which are entrusted to the labour inspection service do not interfere with the effective discharge of the inspectors’ primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers.

The Committee notes the information indicating that the material resources of the labour inspection service have been particularly affected by the state of political crisis and the subsequent freezing of international aid for a long period and expresses the hope that relations with donor countries will rapidly return to normal.

The Committee is particularly concerned at the statistics supplied by the Government to the effect that, for the first quarter of 1999 alone, 1,770 occupational accidents were reported in the 461 workplaces liable to inspection and only one inspection was carried out. The Committee hopes that assistance and financial help will speedily be resumed, which should improve the situation of the labour inspection service. It wishes, moreover, to emphasize that, in order to permit the closest possible application of the Convention, the duties of the labour inspection service should be redefined in a realistic manner in accordance with the provisions cited above. In the current state of the legislation, and bearing in mind the modest human resources and material and financial means available to the labour inspection service, it is obviously urgent for control activities to be developed in regard to safety and health at work. This priority necessarily implies work to increase the awareness of employers and workers in regard to compliance with the legal and technical occupational safety and health provisions and the progressive elimination of risk factors. The Committee trusts that the Government will not fail to put to use as speedily as possible, to that end, all the means available to it, particularly by allocation of part of international assistance programme funds and recourse to ILO expertise. The Committee requests the Government to continue to communicate statistics on the matters set out under Article 21(b), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) and to supply any information making it possible to appreciate the evolution of the situation.

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

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes that the Government provided a report that was identical to the one received in November 1999. It requests the Government, on the one hand, to refer to its general observation of 1999 on labour inspection and child labour and, on the other hand, to provide information in reply to the request that it addressed directly to it the same year on the following points:

The Committee observes that the activities of the labour inspection service focus chiefly on the settlement of labour disputes and, secondarily, on activities linked to the main functions as set out in Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention. The Government is requested to supply information on the manner in which it is ensured, in accordance with paragraph 2 of the same Article, that duties such as the settlement of labour conflicts and the formulation of draft laws and regulations which are entrusted to the labour inspection service do not interfere with the effective discharge of the inspectors’ primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers.

The Committee notes the information indicating that the material resources of the labour inspection service have been particularly affected by the state of political crisis and the subsequent freezing of international aid for a long period and expresses the hope that relations with donor countries will rapidly return to normal.

The Committee is particularly concerned at the statistics supplied by the Government to the effect that, for the first quarter of 1999 alone, 1,770 occupational accidents were reported in the 461 workplaces liable to inspection and only one inspection was carried out. The Committee hopes that assistance and financial help will speedily be resumed, which should improve the situation of the labour inspection service. It wishes, moreover, to emphasize that, in order to permit the closest possible application of the Convention, the duties of the labour inspection service should be redefined in a realistic manner in accordance with the provisions cited above. In the current state of the legislation, and bearing in mind the modest human resources and material and financial means available to the labour inspection service, it is obviously urgent for control activities to be developed in regard to safety and health at work. This priority necessarily implies work to increase the awareness of employers and workers in regard to compliance with the legal and technical occupational safety and health provisions and the progressive elimination of risk factors. The Committee trusts that the Government will not fail to put to use as speedily as possible, to that end, all the means available to it, particularly by allocation of part of international assistance programme funds and recourse to ILO expertise. The Committee requests the Government to continue to communicate statistics on the matters set out under Article 21(b), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) and to supply any information making it possible to appreciate the evolution of the situation.

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

The Committee notes that the Government provided a report that was identical to the one received in November 1999. It requests the Government, on the one hand, to refer to its general observation of 1999 on labour inspection and child labour and, on the other hand, to provide information in reply to the request that it addressed directly to it the same year on the following points:

The Committee observes that the activities of the labour inspection service focus chiefly on the settlement of labour disputes and, secondarily, on activities linked to the main functions as set out in Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention. The Government is requested to supply information on the manner in which it is ensured, in accordance with paragraph 2 of the same Article, that duties such as the settlement of labour conflicts and the formulation of draft laws and regulations which are entrusted to the labour inspection service do not interfere with the effective discharge of the inspectors’ primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers.

The Committee notes the information indicating that the material resources of the labour inspection service have been particularly affected by the state of political crisis and the subsequent freezing of international aid for a long period and expresses the hope that relations with donor countries will rapidly return to normal.

The Committee is particularly concerned at the statistics supplied by the Government to the effect that, for the first quarter of 1999 alone, 1,770 occupational accidents were reported in the 461 workplaces liable to inspection and only one inspection was carried out. The Committee hopes that assistance and financial help will speedily be resumed, which should improve the situation of the labour inspection service. It wishes, moreover, to emphasize that, in order to permit the closest possible application of the Convention, the duties of the labour inspection service should be redefined in a realistic manner in accordance with the provisions cited above. In the current state of the legislation, and bearing in mind the modest human resources and material and financial means available to the labour inspection service, it is obviously urgent for control activities to be developed in regard to safety and health at work. This priority necessarily implies work to increase the awareness of employers and workers in regard to compliance with the legal and technical occupational safety and health provisions and the progressive elimination of risk factors. The Committee trusts that the Government will not fail to put to use as speedily as possible, to that end, all the means available to it, particularly by allocation of part of international assistance programme funds and recourse to ILO expertise. The Committee requests the Government to continue to communicate statistics on the matters set out under Article 21(b), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) and to supply any information making it possible to appreciate the evolution of the situation.

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

The Committee notes the Government's report and the information supplied in reply to its previous comments.

The Committee observes that the activities of the labour inspection service focus chiefly on the settlement of labour disputes and, secondarily, on activities linked to the main functions as set out in Article 3, paragraph 1, of the Convention. The Government is requested to supply information on the manner in which it is ensured, in accordance with paragraph 2 of the same Article, that duties such as the settlement of labour conflicts and the formulation of draft laws and regulations which are entrusted to the labour inspection service do not interfere with the effective discharge of the inspectors' primary duties or prejudice in any way the authority and impartiality which are necessary in their relations with employers and workers.

The Committee notes the information indicating that the material resources of the labour inspection service have been particularly affected by the state of political crisis and the subsequent freezing of international aid for a long period and expresses the hope that relations with the donor countries will rapidly return to normal.

The Committee is particularly concerned at the statistics supplied by the Government to the effect that, for the first quarter of 1999 alone, 1,770 occupational accidents were reported in the 461 workplaces liable to inspection and only one inspection was carried out. The Committee hopes that assistance and financial help will speedily be resumed, which should improve the situation of the labour inspection service. It wishes, moreover, to emphasize that, in order to permit the closest possible application of the Convention, the duties of the labour inspection service should be redefined in a realistic manner in accordance with the provisions cited above. In the current state of the legislation, and bearing in mind the modest human resources and material and financial means available to the labour inspection service, it is obviously urgent for control activities to be developed in regard to safety and health at work. This priority necessarily implies work to increase the awareness of employers and workers in regard to compliance with the legal and technical safety and health at work provisions and the progressive elimination of risk factors. The Committee trusts that the Government will not fail to put to use as speedily as possible, to that end, all the means available to it, particularly by allocation of part of international assistance programme funds and recourse to ILO expertise. The Committee requests the Government to continue to communicate statistics on the matters set out under Article 21(b), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g) and to supply any information making it possible to appreciate the evolution of the situation.

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

The Committee notes with regret that once again the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Articles 7, 10 and 16 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate whether the level of inspection indicated in the 1988 and 1989 reports is considered sufficient to ensure the effective application of the relevant legal provisions. Please indicate any measures taken or envisaged to improve the frequency and thoroughness of inspection visits, and to ensure the training and number of inspectors are adequate.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the annual inspection reports provided contain only partial information on the activities of the inspection services. It hopes that all the information required by Article 21 (including statistics of undertakings liable to inspection and the number of persons working in them) will be included in the reports. Please indicate also whether these reports are published and made generally available to interested persons and groups, including employer and worker organizations.

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

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Articles 7, 10 and 16 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate whether the level of inspection indicated in the 1988 and 1989 reports is considered sufficient to ensure the effective application of the relevant legal provisions. Please indicate any measures taken or envisaged to improve the frequency and thoroughness of inspection visits, and to ensure the training and number of inspectors are adequate.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the annual inspection reports provided contain only partial information on the activities of the inspection services. It hopes that all the information required by Article 21 (including statistics of undertakings liable to inspection and the number of persons working in them) will be included in the reports. Please indicate also whether these reports are published and made generally available to interested persons and groups, including employer and worker organizations.

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

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Articles 7, 10 and 16 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate whether the level of inspection indicated in the 1988 and 1989 reports is considered sufficient to ensure the effective application of the relevant legal provisions. Please indicate any measures taken or envisaged to improve the frequency and thoroughness of inspection visits, and to ensure the training and number of inspectors are adequate.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the annual inspection reports provided contain only partial information on the activities of the inspection services. It hopes that all the information required by Article 21 (including statistics of undertakings liable to inspection and the number of persons working in them) will be included in the reports. Please indicate also whether these reports are published and made generally available to interested persons and groups, including employer and worker organizations.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 82nd ILC session (1995)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Articles 7, 10 and 16 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate whether the level of inspection indicated in the 1988 and 1989 reports is considered sufficient to ensure the effective application of the relevant legal provisions. Please indicate any measures taken or envisaged to improve the frequency and thoroughness of inspection visits, and to ensure the training and number of inspectors are adequate.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the annual inspection reports provided contain only partial information on the activities of the inspection services. It hopes that all the information required by Article 21 (including statistics of undertakings liable to inspection and the number of persons working in them) will be included in the reports. Please indicate also whether these reports are published and made generally available to interested persons and groups, including employer and worker organizations.

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

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Articles 7, 10 and 16 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate whether the level of inspection indicated in the 1988 and 1989 reports is considered sufficient to ensure the effective application of the relevant legal provisions. Please indicate any measures taken or envisaged to improve the frequency and thoroughness of inspection visits, and to ensure the training and number of inspectors are adequate.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the annual inspection reports provided contain only partial information on the activities of the inspection services. It hopes that all the information required by Article 21 (including statistics of undertakings liable to inspection and the number of persons working in them) will be included in the reports. Please indicate also whether these reports are published and made generally available to interested persons and groups, including employer and worker organizations.

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

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Articles 7, 10 and 16 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate whether the level of inspection indicated in the 1988 and 1989 reports is considered sufficient to ensure the effective application of the relevant legal provisions. Please indicate any measures taken or envisaged to improve the frequency and thoroughness of inspection visits, and to ensure the training and number of inspectors are adequate.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the annual inspection reports provided contain only partial information on the activities of the inspection services. It hopes that all the information required by Article 21 (including statistics of undertakings liable to inspection and the number of persons working in them) will be included in the reports. Please indicate also whether these reports are published and made generally available to interested persons and groups, including employer and worker organizations.

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

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government, including the annual reports of the activities of the inspection services for 1988, 1989 and 1990.

Articles 7, 10 and 16 of the Convention. Further to its previous comments, the Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate whether the level of inspection indicated in the 1988 and 1989 reports is considered sufficient to ensure the effective application of the relevant legal provisions. Please indicate any measures taken or envisaged to improve the frequency and thoroughness of inspection visits, and to ensure the training and number of inspectors are adequate.

Articles 20 and 21. The Committee notes that the annual inspection reports provided contain only partial information on the activities of the inspection services. It hopes that all the information required by Article 21 (including statistics of undertakings liable to inspection and the number of persons working in them) will be included in the reports. Please indicate also whether these reports are published and made generally available to interested persons and groups, including employer and worker organisations.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1990, published 77th ILC session (1990)

Articles 10 and 16 of the Convention. The Committee notes with concern, from the annual inspection reports, that visits by labour inspectors to enterprises are extremely rare (for the 1,890 enterprises liable to inspection, the number of visits carried out was only 35 in 1986 and 57 in 1987). Furthermore, the Committee notes that the Government is aware of the need to increase the staff of the labour inspection services in order to ensure that workplaces are inspected regularly. It hopes that appropriate measures to this effect will be taken in the near future and requests the Government to supply information in its future reports on any progress achieved in this respect.

Article 20. The Committee requests the Government to indicate whether annual inspection reports are published and made available to the authorities concerned, to employers' and workers' organisations, and more generally, to all persons concerned.