The Global Labour Policies programme uses a multidisciplinary approach to examine the challenges unions and workers face as a result of rapid economic and social change.

The programme aims to equip participants to assist workers and their organisations in engaging more effectively in social dialogue, public debate and policy implementation on central human development objectives. These include employment creation, gender equality, workers' rights and social justice, all of which are key to combating poverty and social exclusion.

The curriculum has been developed by an international group of experts from universities, the ILO, trade unions (the IMF amongst others) and their research institutions.

Main course modules are:

• Trade union strategies in a global economy
• Governance of globalisation
• Strategies of multinational companies and labour
• Economic policy and union strategy
• Labour and sustainable development
• Organisational development of trade unions

The candidate profile requires experience in trade unions or related fields and a Bachelor�s degree in political science, sociology, law, economics or an equivalent degree.

In exceptional cases, admission will be granted to candidates with skills and qualifications gained through professional experience and life-long learning.

Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

The closing date for applications is March 15, 2005, and the current registration fee is �350, plus costs for workshops and excursions. A limited number of scholarships are available for trade unionists from developing countries.

A leaflet of the course can be accessed from the IMF website. For application forms and additional information, visit the website of the International Labour Organisation at: www.ilo.org/lpg