Realising Decent Work in a Globalising World : Dignity of Work and Dignity at Work

In an enlightened democratic society, employment should afford people opportunities to work with dignity. Working with dignity is a fundamental part of achieving a good life, yet workplaces and government policies often pose challenging obstacles to the realization of dignity. We elaborate upon notions of dignity by distinguishing between 'dignity at work' and 'the dignity of work'. This discussion is set within the context of historical discussions and policy pronouncements that have reflected on decent work. Next we discuss recent examples of state policy in Australia that may either promote or hinder the realisation of dignity in the two senses that we use the term. We offer examples of two industries which have confronted the challenges of designing work situations that promote more or less dignity; call centres and airlines. The paper aims to assist employers and employees to agree upon the rights and obligations which should apply in their workplaces