ILO reports formalisation gains in sectors with highest forced labour prevalence

Targeted formalisation programmes in domestic work, agriculture and fishing bring millions of workers under labour law protection for the first time.

The ILO's review of formalisation programmes reports 14 million workers moved into registered employment across the three sectors with the highest forced labour prevalence, extending inspection coverage, social security and contract protections.

The report emphasises that formalisation is prevention: registered workers with enforceable contracts are measurably less likely to end up in debt bondage or coercive employment.