During the recent visit of ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo to Gabon on 1 and 2 July 2024, a sub-committee on employment and decent work at the National Assembly was estabilished.
This development is set to bring substantial benefits to businesses, signaling Gabon's commitment to fostering a more structured and supportive environment for employers.
On 24 May 2024, the Council of the European Union (EU) finalised the adoption of the Directive on corporate sustainability due diligence, which the European Commission initially proposed on 23 February 2022.
The Directive mandates that companies identify and mitigate adverse human rights and environmental impacts within their operations and global value chains.
It applies to EU and non-EU companies, including parent companies with a turnover exceeding EUR 450 million.
Quebec's Bill 42, effective 27 March 2024, sets a new benchmark for labour laws related to psychological harassment and sexual violence in Quebec. It calls for employers to adopt a proactive stance in preventing harassment and ensuring a safe work environment.
It introduces strategic changes across several acts, including the Labour Code and the Act respecting industrial accidents and occupational diseases.
The bill mandates specialised training for arbitrators on sexual violence, underscoring the commitment to informed resolution processes.
The introduction of legal presumptions to facilitate claims for injuries resulting from sexual violence, along with extended filing time limits, underscores a proactive approach to support workers, balancing employee well-being with organisational accountability.
Effective 1 April 2024, all business operators must provide reasonable accommodation to persons with disabilities, according to the recent amendments to the Act for Eliminating Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities.
The recent report co-authored by the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) provides a comprehensive overview of the strides made by Employer and Business Membership Organizations in advancing gender equality.
The study, which includes data from 95 EBMOs across 87 countries, reveals both the progress made and the challenges that persist in achieving gender parity within business leadership and governance.