Verkhovna Rada adopts bill limiting social guarantees for pregnant women and workers in hazardous industries

Parliament adopts changes to labour norms

Members of the Verkhovna Rada have finally voted in favour of bill No. 10147, which makes significant corrections to the current labour legislation of Ukraine. The document provides for a change in the approach to the social protection of workers employed in difficult conditions, as well as pregnant women and mothers.

Restrictions for workers in hazardous industries

In accordance with the adopted document, individuals employed in hazardous industries may lose a number of existing benefits. These include:

• the right to preferential pensions;
• supplements to wages;
• a reduced working day;
• additional paid leave.

In addition, the bill abolishes free medical treatment in the event of sustaining occupational injuries.

Weakening of guarantees for pregnant women and mothers

The changes also affect the rights of pregnant women and mothers raising children under the age of three. The new norms may deprive them of the possibility of being transferred to lighter work. Employers are also given the right to assign such employees to night shifts.

Reaction from trade union organisations

The introduced changes were not supported by 14 Ukrainian sectoral trade unions. International trade union organisations and the International Labour Organization also opposed the initiative.