The ILO was created in 1919, as part of the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I, to reflect the belief that universal and lasting peace can be accomplished only if it is based on social justice. [Origins and history of the ILO]

In 2009 the ILO celebrates its 90th Anniversary, against a backdrop of financial crisis and critical levels of unemployment around the world. Looking to the future means understanding the past, and as such the ILO’s 90th anniversary celebrations world wide focus on the theme of "90 years working for social justice" with a strong forward looking element, asking how the ILO's experience working through multiple crises can add a unique voice to the response to the present day economic crisis.

The Versailles Peace Conference approved the final elements of the ILO’s original Constitution on 28 April 1919 and the ILO marked its 90th anniversary in the week of 21-28 April.

The book The ILO and the Quest for Social Justice: 1919-2009 was launched at a press conference in Geneva on 27 April. This book is a historical account of how the main principles guiding ILO action – social justice, dignity in work, freedom of association and expression, equality and the need to overcome poverty – have developed over the past 90 years as the world emerged from the ashes of the Great War and embarked upon a period of unparalleled change in the history of mankind.

A number of related materials, such as a video and a slide show have also been prepared.

Special events are being held in more than 120 countries to mark the anniversary. These events are as diverse as photo exhibits, cultural performances, grassroots workshops and high-level tripartite discussions. Partners around the world will hold ceremonies commemorating the development and marking present day ratifications of international labour standards.

As the ILO celebrates its 90th anniversary, plans are already under way for the 100th. The ILO's century Project aims to ensure that the ILO reaches its centenary with the best possible understanding of the successes achieved to date, the conditions of this success and the challenges and difficulties faced along the way.

For further information on the 90th anniversary of the ILO visit www.ilo.org/90.