LegaL Matters By Jessie Taylor
H
uman Rights Month is commemorated in March to remind South Africans about the sacrifices that accompanied the struggle for democracy. It serves as a reminder of the rights that are enshrined in South Africa’s Constitution. Every person in the country is able to enjoy these human rights and there are various pieces of legislation that protect them, whether it is in the public domain or in the workplace. Worker rights are the cornerstone of a fair, just and prosperous society as they ensure that employees have access to safe working conditions, and the opportunity to build an economically-resilient society.
WhaT legislaTion proTecTs your laBour righTs? South Africa has a past in which workers were often exploited. From early settlers relying on slave labour, to the workers being subjected to the migrant labour system, passes and influx control, job reservation, poverty wages and apartheid oppressive laws. This is why their rights are not protected by several pieces of legislation.
Human Rights in the workplace Know your rights in the workplace
46 | Public Sector Leaders | March 2023
The Constitution ensures that every employee has the right: • Not to be unfairly dismissed • To be treated with dignity and respect • To be paid the agreed wage on the agreed date and at the agreed time • To be provided with appropriate resources and equipment to enable him/her to do the job • To have safe working conditions
