The multilateral system is currently experiencing turbulent times. Amidst this turmoil, it is imperative to return to the principles on which this Organization was founded. The conviction that “all human beings […] have the right to pursue both their material well-being and their spiritual development in conditions of freedom and dignity” and the ideal of “universal and lasting peace, based on social justice” must be strongly reaffirmed.
Statement of H.E. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, Apostolic Nuncio, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva at the 355th Session of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization (ILO)
Geneva, 18 November 2025
Madame President,
The Holy See would like to thank the Director General, the Office and all social partners for the work done on this matter.
The multilateral system is currently experiencing turbulent times. Amidst this turmoil, it is imperative to return to the principles on which this Organization was founded. The conviction that “all human beings […] have the right to pursue both their material well-being and their spiritual development in conditions of freedom and dignity”[1] and the ideal of “universal and lasting peace, based on social justice”[2] must be strongly reaffirmed.
Each reform must begin there. This is essential at three levels.
Firstly, it is essential for maintaining the integrity and credibility of the wider multilateral system, given that the ILO is the only tripartite organization with a mandate to promote social justice and decent work.
Secondly, it is crucial for the ILO’s institutional vitality and operational effectiveness. Reform should be driven by a shared sense of responsibility to ensure the Organization’s continued relevance in a changing world, and not solely by financial constraints. As Pope Leo XIV says, there is a need “to realize that more important than our problems or eventual solutions is the way we approach them, guided by criteria of discernment, [and] sound ethical principles.”[3]
Thirdly, the ultimate purpose of strengthening the ILO is to benefit workers, employers, and communities through the Organization’s guidance and programs.
Thank you.