Workers’ Rights under Labor Law No. 37 of 2015 and Social Security and Retirement Law No. 18 of 2023<br /><br />Greetings and appreciation to the workers of Iraq and the world on their glorious holiday<br /><br />On the first of May, we stand in respect for the working class in Iraq and around the world, remembering their struggle and sacrifices to attain their legitimate rights and to achieve a humane work environment based on justice and dignity. On this occasion, we extend a special salute to the patient and resilient workers of Iraq, who are the cornerstone of the nation's construction and development. We also seize the opportunity to highlight the most important rights and obligations granted to them under the recent Iraqi legislation.<br /><br />First: Workers’ Rights under Labor Law No. 37 of 2015<br />This law guarantees a set of fundamental rights for workers, most notably:<br /><br />The right to decent and safe work: Article (2) guarantees a safe and fair working environment.<br /><br />Prohibition of discrimination and coercion: Articles (4 and 9) prohibit all forms of discrimination and coercion in employment or during work.<br /><br />The right to fair wages: Articles (53–65) stipulate that wages must be sufficient to meet the minimum requirements of decent living.<br /><br />Working hours and days of rest: Articles (66–73) set the maximum working hours at eight hours per day, with a weekly rest entitlement.<br /><br />Leave entitlements: Article (75) grants workers annual paid leave of no less than 21 days.<br /><br />Right to union organization: Articles (5 and 6) guarantee the workers’ right to form and join labor unions.<br /><br />Second: Workers’ Obligations under Labor Law No. 37 of 2015<br />Article (42) outlines workers’ rights and obligations, and prohibits dismissal except for legitimate reasons, with the right to appeal before the court. These obligations include:<br /><br />Performing work accurately and with dedication.<br /><br />Complying with the employer’s instructions – unless they contradict the law.<br /><br />Not disclosing work-related secrets.<br /><br />Preserving work tools and equipment.<br /><br />Third: Social Security Rights under Law No. 18 of 2023<br />This law was enacted to reinforce the protection of workers in social, health, and financial aspects. Key provisions include:<br /><br />Mandatory registration in social security: Article (23) requires employers to register every worker under social security.<br /><br />Entitlement to a retirement pension after completing the required service period: Article (29) sets the condition of reaching retirement age and having no less than 15 years of service.<br /><br />Compensation for work injuries: Articles (48–60) detail the compensation mechanisms for work injuries, including medical care and financial compensation.<br /><br />Social security in cases of disability and death: Article (29) affirms the rights of a deceased worker’s family to receive a pension or compensation.<br /><br />End-of-service gratuity: Article (37, section two) provides for an end-of-service bonus when a worker leaves under certain conditions.<br /><br />Fourth: Connection to Human Rights and Sustainable Development Goals<br />Protecting workers’ rights is an integral part of upholding human rights, as stipulated in international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. It is also a key component in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:<br /><br />Goal 1: No poverty<br /><br />Goal 5: Gender equality<br /><br />Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth<br /><br />Goal 10: Reduced inequalities<br /><br />Goal 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions<br /><br />Conclusion:<br />On International Workers’ Day, we commend the tireless efforts of the working class everywhere. We also stress the need for the effective implementation of legal provisions that protect workers to ensure their full enjoyment of their rights, and to achieve a balance between the parties in the employment relationship. Respecting and safeguarding workers’ rights is not just a legal obligation, but a fundamental pillar of social justice and sustainable development.<br /><br />Wishing all workers in Iraq and around the world a happy and prosperous Labor Day.<br /><br />M. D. Ali Jassim Mohammed Al-Saadi<br />Al-Mustaqbal University – College of Law<br />May 1, 2025