The IOE is involved in the activities of the International Labour Organization (ILO), acting as Secretariat to the Employers' group, during the International Labour Conference, as well as during the Governing Body Sessions.

The IOE supports strengthening national business organisations in the world, with special emphasis during last years to the employers' organisations in the area of South-East Europe. The Organisation is guiding corporate members in matters of international labour standards, business and human rights, CSR, occupational health and safety, and international industrial relations.

 The International Organisation of Employers represents "the largest network of the private sector in the world" for sharing information and experiences, representing business in international forums, including the G20 intergovernmental process, on labour and social policy.