The U.S.-Morocco Free Trade Agreement is generating positive changes in Moroccan labor laws, according to a fact sheet issued recently by the U.S. Trade Representative.
A comprehensive new labor law went into effect on June 8, 2004.
Like all U.S. free trade agreements, the U.S.-Morocco FTA contains provisions requiring the effective enforcement of domestic labor and environmental laws, and cooperative efforts to upgrade labor and environmental standards.
The new Moroccan labor law is a significant improvement over existing laws and regulations. The law:
-- Raises the minimum employment age (from 12 to 15) to combat child labor.
-- Reduces work week from 48 to 44 hours with overtime rates payable for additional hours.
-- Calls for periodic review of the Moroccan minimum wage. Effective July 1, 2004, the minimum wage will increase by ten percent.
-- Improves worker health and safety regulations, addresses gender equity in the workplace, and promotes employment of the disabled.
-- Guarantees rights of association and collective bargaining and prohibits employers from taking actions against workers because they are union members.
The U.S. government, through the Department of Labor, has a significant assistance program (nearly $9.5 million) designed to improve industrial relations, activities to combat child labor, and enforcement of the new labor code.
Morocco has ratified seven of the eight ILO core conventions, and is currently considering ratification of the final one. The Moroccan constitution guarantees the right to strike and this right is exercised regularly. (Albawaba.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
