Thailand is moving forward with ratifying two important International Labour Organization conventions that could significantly improve workers’ rights across the country. The government is working to ratify Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association and Convention No. 98 on the Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining, both considered essential for fair workplace practices.
Recent Developments
In August 2025, the Thai Senate Standing Committee on Labour and its sub-committee on Labour Protection and Welfare met with ILO representatives in Bangkok to discuss the benefits of these conventions. The meetings focused on how ratification would give workers legal rights to form unions and negotiate directly with employers. Research shows that countries with these conventions typically see more stable workplace relationships, better working conditions, and stronger economic growth.
Xiaoyan Qian, Director of the ILO’s Decent Work Technical Support Team for East and South-East Asia and the Pacific, pointed out that “when workers have a voice, workplaces are fairer, economies are stronger, and societies thrive.” This highlights the broader impact such reforms could have beyond individual workplaces.
Thailand’s Labour Reform Framework
The push for ratification fits into Thailand’s Decent Work Country Programme 2023–2027, which sets out plans to reform labour markets, improve social protections, and meet international standards. The programme includes goals such as better protections for informal workers, stronger workplace safety, and aligning Thai labour laws with global benchmarks.
Thailand has already ratified 21 ILO conventions, including 8 of the 10 most fundamental. However, Conventions 87 and 98 are still pending, and securing them would represent a major milestone for workers’ rights. This is particularly relevant for people employed in manufacturing, agriculture, and domestic work—sectors where millions of Thai workers often have little negotiating power and inconsistent protections (ILO Thailand overview).
Benefits Beyond Labour Rights
Ratifying these conventions would strengthen protections for workers and also improve Thailand’s standing in international trade and human rights. It could help secure better trade deals, attract foreign investment, and enhance the country’s reputation as a responsible member of the international community. Thailand has already taken steps in this direction by ratifying the Occupational Safety and Health Convention (No. 155) and its 2002 Protocol, showing its willingness to align with international labour standards.
The ratification process underlines Thailand’s recognition that labour rights and economic growth are mutually reinforcing. As the country deepens its role in global supply chains, ensuring protections that meet international standards will be essential for competitiveness and attracting responsible international businesses.
Simon Duff, Director Leap29, shares his perspective
“Thailand’s move to ratify Conventions 87 and 98 is a powerful signal that stronger labour rights and economic growth go hand in hand. By giving workers the ability to organise and bargain collectively, Thailand not only improves fairness and protections at work but also strengthens its global competitiveness. For international investors and businesses, these reforms show Thailand’s commitment to aligning with international standards and fostering more stable, sustainable workplace relationships.”
