Ukraine Strengthens Workers' Rights with New Legislation
The Ukrainian parliament, Verkhovna Rada, has adopted a bill aimed at bolstering workers' rights and promoting a constructive social dialogue to preserve the country's labor potential. The bill, which was adopted with 296 votes in favor on September 21, aligns with the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union. Deputy Minister of Economy Svitlana Glushchenko emphasized that the adoption of this bill will enable the implementation of agreements outlined in Article 420 of the agreement and provisions of EU legislation and the International Labor Organization. The new legislation introduces key innovations, including obligatory notification of trade unions about planned mass dismissals, clarification of mass dismissal criteria, and enhanced collective agreement rights for employees.
Key Takeaways:
- The bill aims to strengthen workers' rights and promote a constructive social dialogue to preserve Ukraine's labor potential.
- The adoption of the bill is in line with the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union, specifically Article 420.
- The legislation introduces new regulations, including obligatory notification of trade unions about planned mass dismissals and clarification of mass dismissal criteria.
- The bill grants all employees the right to enter into collective agreements, including those working for individual employers.
- The new legislation also includes anti-discrimination provisions, prohibiting unjustified refusal to hire and allowing for compensation and restoration of rights.
- The bill aims to implement EU legislation and International Labor Organization provisions.
Statistics:
- 296 people's deputies voted in favor of the bill.
- The bill aligns with Article 420 of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union.
Sources:
- "The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted as a basis the government bill On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Concerning Strengthening the Protection of Workers Rights". (Al Bawaba, 2021)
- Al Bawaba, "Ukraine Adopts Shifting Work-Related Documents", September 21 (no specific date year provided)