Abstract
This report is based on a collaboration between ILO, AIOE and EFI. This research report illustrates the value of good labour relations practices, based on strong cooperation between management and trade unions, in effectively responding to crises. It is encouraging to note that most of the surveyed enterprises reported COVID-19 mitigation measures that emphasized worker wellbeing and the employer’s duty of care. These measures included the establishment of mechanisms to promote two-way communication, the use of workplace cooperation mechanisms to jointly address the enterprise-level impacts of the pandemic, and steps to facilitate the rapid resolution of disputes. These measures strongly support many of the priorities of the India Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP), 2018-22. The practices adopted by surveyed enterprises to maintain and strengthen labour relations during the pandemic therefore also provide valuable lessons that all enterprises may consider adopting.