On the occasion of International Workers’ Day this Thursday, Tunisian Minister of Social Affairs, Issam Ayari, reported a series of significant legislative reforms aimed at strengthening workers’ rights in Tunisia. His statement was made during an official event organised by the ministry in Tunis.
Decree for Agricultural Workers’ Protection
Among the key measures announced was a decree, passed in 2024, that focuses on the social protection of female agricultural workers. According to the minister, this is a major step forward for a group that has long been marginalised.
For the first time in Tunisia, a specific legal framework will permit these workers to profit from a social security system without losing financial assistance provided by the social security program. The decree also offers additional benefits, including state contributions to transportation costs and coverage for occupational diseases and work-related accidents.
Issam Ayari explained that his department is currently working on establishing a social protection system for these workers, which would be partially funded by the state.
Draft Law to Regulate Employment Contracts and Combat Precarity
The minister also highlighted a draft law currently under review by Parliament, aimed at regulating employment contracts. This law aims to end employment brokerage practices, particularly in sectors such as security and cleaning, which Ayari referred to as a “new form of economic slavery.”
By legally regulating contractual relationships, this law would strengthen workers’ integration into their companies and contribute to greater job stability.
Creation of the Unemployment Compensation Fund
Another measure in progress is the creation of a national unemployment insurance fund. This fund would provide temporary benefits to workers who have lost their jobs, while facilitating their reintegration through professional retraining programs and reemployment initiatives.
This fund would address a major gap in the current system by ensuring income security during the transition between jobs.
Upcoming Salary Negotiations in the Private Sector
In conclusion, Issam Ayari announced that salary negotiations in the private sector would begin in May 2025. This move is part of the government’s efforts to open a new cycle of social dialogue with economic and union partners.
(TAP)
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