Examines major decisions in the United States, South Africa, and the European Court of Justice related to affirmative action in the workplace. Suggests explanations for differences among the conclusions reached and argues that more rigorous reasoning might enable courts to reach just and realistic decisions. (JOW)

This year's session adopted new standards such as maintenance of migrant workers' social security rights, protection of workers against unjustified dismissal, and vocational rehabilitation. This article describes the conference's examination of these technical agenda items, and its annual review of the application of Conventions and…