New Labour Law Prohibits Forced Labour & Workplace Discrimination

The House of Representatives has approved key provisions in the new Labour Law, marking a significant step towards strengthening workers' rights and workplace protections in Egypt. Under Article 4, compulsory or forced labour is now explicitly prohibited, alongside any form of verbal, physical, or psychological abuse against workers. This measure seeks to eliminate exploitative labour practices and ensure a safer work environment across all sectors.

Another critical provision, Article 5, establishes a zero-tolerance policy for workplace discrimination, guaranteeing equal opportunities in hiring, training, and employment conditions regardless of religion, gender, ethnicity, disability, social status, or political affiliation. Special protections for women, children, and individuals with disabilities will remain in place, provided they align with national labour regulations.

The approval of these provisions comes amid broader efforts to improve labour conditions and workers' rights in Egypt. Recently, Parliament has approved an amendment that would increase paid maternity from three to four months. Additionally, the government raised the minimum wage for private sector employees to EGP 7,000 per month, a policy that took effect on March 1st, 2025.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Labour is set to develop more policies to integrate marginalised groups into the workforce, working in coordination with the Ministry of Social Solidarity and relevant national councils.