This publication presents an overview of the rights guaranteed by the European Social Charter in the field of industrial relations, as well as the case law built up by the European Committee of Social Rights. Articles 5 and 6 of the Charter cover the right of workers and employers to form organisations for the protection of their economic and social interests; the right to join or not to join these organisations; the right to engage in consultation and collective bargaining; and the right to strike. This edition also includes the most recent assessment by the European Committee of Social Rights in April 2000 of the compliance of member states with these provisions.

The Centre for Studies and Research in International Law and International Relations forms part of the Hague Academy of International Law, and operates under the authority of its managaing board and within the framework of its teaching. The Centre was established for further in-depth research in the area of international law. The topic for 2003 was La sécurité alimentaire; Food Supply Security.