Frans (1946) studied sociology at the University of Utrecht, Netherlands from 1966 to 1972. He obtained a Bachelor’s degree (1969) and studied a Master’s Programme in theoretical sociology and political science from 1970 to 1971. From 1970 to 1972, he studied sociology of organizations and management at the University of Leiden, Netherlands. He obtained his Master’s degree in 1972. Frans’ work experience from 1972 as of today: 1972-1975, Bureau for Policy Planning, University of Utrecht. 1975-present, Official of the International Labour Office. 1975-1977, Programme Officer (ILO Office, Lusaka). 1977-1982, Bureau for Programming and Management (ILO Headquarters, Geneva). 1982-1991, member of the Office of the Director-General (ILO Headquarters, Geneva. 1991-1996, Director of the ILO Sub-regional Office for West Africa, Dakar/Senegal. 1996-1999, Director, Office of the Director-General, ILO Headquarters, Geneva. 1999-2005, Director of the International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC) (ILO Headquarters, Geneva). March 2005-present, in charge of all ILO fund-raising, internal/external coordination and partnerships.