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International labour statistics standards play a pivotal role in the measurement of work and the labour force, providing a solid common framework to understand the world of work and enable governments to shape responsive policies. Indeed, in the last decade standards have evolved to keep up with changes in the world of work. New standards have been adopted to ensure the sound measurement of both paid and unpaid work, fast-evolving work relationships, and the informal economy so prevalent around the world. However, data gaps remain. Standards have to be applied in surveys and other data sources to be effective.
In this page, you can find all the relevant information on statistical labour standards, methods, and guidance to implement them effectively including practical tools for survey design, interpretation, and publication of end results.

Tracking new trends and setting new standards in the world of work

The process of international standard setting for labour statistics
The International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS), hosted by the ILO every 5 years, is the main international standard-setting process for labour statistics. Access below key information on the ICLS, standards adopted by the ICLS and other ICLS documents, and core concepts and definitions used in ILOSTAT.

International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS)
The ICLS meets every 5 years to establish international standards on labour statistics. The latest (21st) ICLS was held in October 2023.

ICLS documents
Find resolutions, guidelines, meeting room documents and reports related to the International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS).

Forms of work: An overview of the new statistical standards
Find resolutions, guidelines, meeting room documents and reports related to the International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS).

Concepts and definitions
Database descriptions, statistical standards (resolutions and guidelines), and guides and manuals – all the metadata to better understand the labour statistics presented on ILOSTAT.
In order to determine that the new labour statistics standards adopted by the 19th, 20th and 21st ICLS have been implemented, the data collection activity must meet certain requirements. Access below an overview of the key requirements for household surveys and related guidance.

International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS)
The ICLS meets every 5 years to establish international standards on labour statistics. The latest (21st) ICLS was held in October 2023.

ICLS documents
Find resolutions, guidelines, meeting room documents and reports related to the International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS).

Forms of work: An overview of the new statistical standards
Find resolutions, guidelines, meeting room documents and reports related to the International Conference of Labour Statisticians (ICLS).
