Under the UN Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration that was adopted by 164 nations in December 2018, labour migration components are significant objectives. Decent work is mentioned in many occasions and social partners are included as key stakeholders. The GCM recognizes key dimensions of ILO’s work and role, as follows:

• Reference to labour mobility and decent work as important elements in enhancing pathways for regular migration
• Investing in skills development and qualifications recognition with specific reference to Global Skills Partnerships
• The reference and commitment to draw on ILO standards, principles and guidelines for developing standard terms of employment and in bilateral and regional labour mobility agreements
• Promoting fair recruitment practices as an important component of the protection of the rights of migrant workers and subsequently ensuring decent work
• Ensuring consular protection for migrant workers including those exploited in the process of recruitment
• Specific references to the protection of the rights of domestic workers and workers at all skills levels
• Reviewing labour laws and work conditions to identify and address vulnerabilities of migrant workers at all skills levels
• Establishing non-discriminatory social protection systems including social protection floors and mechanisms for access and portability of social security benefits
• Strong recognition for the role of trade unions and employers in the various objectives and particularly in the implementation of the compact and through a whole-of-society approach.
• ILO conventions and call for ratification and implementation of relevant instruments on labour migration, labour rights, decent work and forced labour

Decent Work is mentioned explicitly in a number of GCM objectives, including:

• Objective 2: Minimize the adverse drivers and structural factors that compel people to leave their country of origin;
• Objective 5: Enhance availability and flexibility of pathways for regular migration;
• Objective 6: Facilitate fair and ethical recruitment and safeguard conditions that ensure decent work;
• Objective 16: Empower migrants and societies to realize full inclusion and social cohesion;
• Objective 18: Invest in skills development and facilitate mutual recognition of skills, qualifications and competences;
• Objective 21: Cooperate in facilitating safe and dignified return and readmission, as well as sustainable reintegration.