Employment law has evolved over time to protect the rights of workers and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Various laws and regulations have been enacted at national and international levels to address different aspects of employment, including wages, workplace safety, employee benefits, and protection against discrimination and abuse.
Major Laws and Protections
Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Workers: The Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act in the United States regulates the hiring and employment activities of agricultural employers, farm labor contractors, and associations using migrant and seasonal agricultural workers. It prescribes wage protections, housing and transportation safety standards, farm labor contractor registration requirements, and disclosure requirements .
Temporary Foreign Workers: In Canada, the rights of all workers, including temporary foreign workers (TFWs), are protected by law. TFWs have the same rights and protections as Canadians and permanent residents. Employers are required to provide information about workers’ rights, a signed copy of the employment agreement, fair payment as stated in the agreement, a workplace free of abuse, and compliance with employment and recruitment standards .
European Union: The status of a worker and a self-employed person in the European Union (EU) is determined by criteria established by the Court of Justice of the EU. The characteristics of employment that define an employment relationship or contract vary between EU member states and are a matter of national competence. The classification of platform workers as either workers or self-employed persons depends on their actual situation, and they should enjoy the respective rights and protections .
New Jersey, USA: All workers in New Jersey, including members of immigrant and refugee communities, are protected by the law. Protections include safeguards against retaliation by employers, regulations on employee misclassification, and the right to overtime pay, paid leave, and other benefits. The state provides resources to help workers understand and exercise their rights .
International Labor Organization (ILO): The ILO is a United Nations agency that sets international labor standards and promotes decent work for all. It addresses various aspects of labor rights, including fair working conditions, social protection, and the prevention of violence against workers.
Wisconsin, USA: Wisconsin has laws that regulate private employment agencies, set standards for fees, advertising, and bonding, and require employers to maintain time and payroll records. The state also allows employers to require medical examinations as a condition of employment, with the employer covering the cost. Temporary help agencies, labor union hiring halls, theatrical and booking agencies, and employment counselors are exempt from these laws .
Indonesia: Indonesian labor law aims to safeguard the fundamental rights of workers, ensure equal opportunity and treatment, and secure the implementation of worker protection measures .
Platform Workers: The issue of rights for platform workers has gained attention globally. The European Council has emphasized the need to protect labor rights and social protection for platform workers, ensuring they receive the same benefits as employees under national and EU law .
California, USA: The California Labor Commissioners Office enforces labor laws to combat wage theft, protect workers from retaliation, and promote economic justice. All workers in California, regardless of immigration status, are protected by labor laws .
Canada: The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development in Canada plays a role in protecting workers’ rights, settling workplace disputes, supporting skilled trades, apprenticeships, and employment services .