The European Union, in a statement delivered at the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC114) on 9 June 2026, urged Lao PDR to align its national legislation and practice with ILO Convention 138 concerning the minimum age for admission to employment. The statement was made before the Committee on the Application of Standards, which reviews member states' compliance with ratified ILO conventions.
The EU's intervention highlights persistent gaps in Lao PDR's implementation of Convention 138, which sets the minimum working age at 15 years (or 14 for developing economies) and prohibits hazardous work for those under 18. The statement calls on the Lao government to take concrete steps to enforce the convention, including strengthening labour inspections, raising awareness among employers and families, and ensuring that children of school age are not engaged in economic activities.
This marks a renewed EU focus on child labour and decent work standards in Southeast Asia, following previous diplomatic engagements on labour rights in the region. The ILC, held annually in Geneva, brings together governments, employers and workers from ILO member states to set and supervise international labour standards.
The EU's statement does not specify potential consequences for non-compliance but reiterates the bloc's commitment to promoting fundamental labour rights globally. The Committee on the Application of Standards may issue observations or requests for further action by Lao PDR.
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