Topic:
Country: Belgium
Delegate Name: Abby Grocki
Exploitation is defined as the unfair treatment of an individual or resource for the benefit of the work they provide. In the modern workplace around the globe the UN has observed employers treating workers like objects just as described. Labor exploitation entails numerous negative results including poor wages for overworked employees, hazardous conditions, and just overall lack of respect. With approximately 50 million individuals currently subjected to forced labor, the UNDP must observe and regulate the sources of labor exploitation for the protection of the people.
Belgium sets a fine example of excellent working conditions as the Belgian workers are reported to be highly ranked for worlds happiest workforce. While Belgians economy is able to support the work-life balance that Europeans cherish dearly, it may not be the case for other nations. Belgium does not wish to impede on the national sovereignty of any other nation, and would like to promote suggestions that have led to a productive working state. The global employment percentage is 56%; Belgium has 64% of the total population employed and offers numerous benefits that attract workers. Employers’ taxes may range anywhere from 25% to 30.43% of employees wages while employees set aside 13.07% of paychecks for the government to fund pensions, unemployment benefits, workplace injury insurance, and illness benefits. With a legal working week of 38 hours, many Belgians believe in a balance of work and life so there is time for family, travel, and other important events during time off. With paid time off, workers are able to be recharged so it is a peaceful and healthy work environment that eliminates stress and disrespect. Social consultation is also used in Belgian employment policy where employers and workers consult the protection offered. In addition, Belgium ratified the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 in September of 2019 to combat labor exploitation and use preventative and rehabilitative measures for the betterment of the people.
Belgium supports the movement of opening availability of jobs in which are safe, inclusive, and beneficial for the wellbeing of each individual in the workforce. Belgium proposes safety and rehabilitation centers to compensate victims of labor exploitation for a safer protection plan. Belgium looks forward to working with the U.S., Netherlands, Germany, and France to encourage the protection of workers and eliminate labor exploitation.
Works Cited
“Belgium Joins Efforts to Combat Forced Labour.” Forced Labour: Belgium Joins Efforts to Combat Forced Labour, 10 Sept. 2019, www.ilo.org/global/standards/subjects-covered-by-international-labour-standards/forced-labour/WCMS_718149/lang–en/index.htm.
Dyvik, Einar H. “Global Employment Rate by Region 2023.” Statista, 1 Nov. 2023, www.statista.com/statistics/1258882/global-employment-rate-by-region/.
“Employment Legislation.” Employment Legislation | Belgium.Be, .be, 2023, www.belgium.be/en/work/employment_legislation.
Gilbert, Bruce. “Employee Benefits in Belgium: All You Need to Know.” Blog, remote.com/blog/belgium-employee-benefits-compensation. Accessed 21 Nov. 2023.
“P029 – Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930.” Protocol P029 – Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930, www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=NORMLEXPUB%3A12100%3A0%3A%3ANO%3A%3AP12100_ILO_CODE%3AP029. Accessed 21 Nov. 2023.
