Meaning: This quote by Léon Jouhaux, a French trade union leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, refers to a significant event in the history of international labor relations. The convention mentioned in the quote is the International Labour Organization (ILO) convention of 1925, which marked a pivotal moment in the development of labor standards and the protection of workers' rights on a global scale.

The year 1925 was a time of significant social and economic upheaval, as the aftermath of World War I and the effects of industrialization had created widespread labor issues and inequalities. Recognizing the need for international cooperation to address these challenges, the ILO was established in 1919 as a specialized agency of the United Nations. Its primary goal was to promote social justice and internationally recognized human and labor rights.

The convention referred to in the quote reflects the efforts of labor members, including Léon Jouhaux, to advocate for the principle of supervision rather than simple propaganda in addressing labor issues. This distinction is crucial, as it signifies a shift from merely promoting labor rights to actively supervising and enforcing these rights to ensure their implementation and protection.

Jouhaux's involvement in the development of the convention highlights the proactive role of labor leaders in shaping international labor standards. His leadership and advocacy within the ILO played a significant part in advancing the cause of workers' rights and promoting the principle of supervision as a means of ensuring meaningful and effective protections for workers.

The recognition of the principle of supervision in the 1925 convention represented a turning point in the evolution of labor standards. It signaled a departure from purely rhetorical or symbolic gestures towards a more substantive and practical approach to addressing labor issues. By emphasizing the importance of oversight and enforcement mechanisms, the convention aimed to hold governments and employers accountable for upholding labor rights and standards.

The significance of this development cannot be overstated, as it laid the groundwork for the establishment of international labor standards and norms that continue to guide the global community in promoting decent work and social justice. The ILO's supervisory mechanisms, including the system of regular reports and evaluations by member states, are a direct result of the principles enshrined in the 1925 convention.

Furthermore, the convention's emphasis on supervision also reflects a broader shift in the approach to labor rights, moving from a focus on individual freedoms to collective rights and social justice. This shift aligns with the broader social and political movements of the time, which sought to address systemic inequalities and injustices through collective action and international solidarity.

In conclusion, Léon Jouhaux's quote about the 1925 convention captures a crucial moment in the history of international labor relations. The recognition of the principle of supervision represented a significant step towards establishing meaningful and enforceable labor standards on a global scale. Jouhaux's role in advocating for this principle underscores the agency of labor leaders in shaping international labor policy and promoting the rights and protections of workers worldwide. The legacy of the 1925 convention continues to resonate today, as the ILO remains a vital institution in advancing social justice and decent work for all.