The International Labour Organization (ILO) has officially upgraded Palestine’s status from a “national liberation movement” to a “non-member observer state.” The decision was reached by consensus during the 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva.
This change gives Palestine expanded rights at the ILO, including the ability to speak on all agenda items, submit proposals, and participate in meetings with tripartite delegations. From 2026, Palestine will also be able to nominate delegates to the Conference Bureau.
Palestinian Ambassador Ibrahim Khraishi welcomed the move as a step toward justice and self-determination. The resolution was supported by the Arab Group, OIC, France, China, Spain, Switzerland, and both Employers’ and Workers’ Groups. Hungary was the only country to oppose it.
