Employment law in Syria is primarily regulated by two pieces of legislation – the Local Labour Law No. 17 enacted in 2010 and the Investment Law No. 8 of 2007. Both employer and employee relations in Syria are governed by these legal frameworks, ensuring the protection of workers’ rights and establishing responsibilities and obligations for employers.
General Overview of Employment Law
Under the Local Labour Law, employment contracts should be written and contain specific information like the employee’s compensation, nature of work, duration, and working hours. In the absence of a written contract, the employer must provide proof of the details of the employment agreement.
Syrian employment law also provides protection against unfair dismissal. The employer must provide a legitimate and clear reason for termination. Employers are further obligated to pay severance pay depending on the period of employment.
Working Hours and Overtime
The standard stipulated working hours in Syria are eight per day or 48 per week. However, exceptions may apply in jobs that require more flexibility such as managerial roles. If an employee works overtime, they are entitled to a 25% pay increase during the day and a 50% increase if it is at night. For Friday and national holiday duties, the increase is 100%, illustrating the emphasis on fair compensation practices in Syrian labor law.
Maternity and Paternity Leave
Maternity and paternity rights in Syria are enshrined in its employment laws. Paid maternity leave is given up to 120 days for the birth of the first and second child, and 180 days for the third child onwards. Paternity leave, although unpaid, is provided for three days.
Social Insurance and Employee Benefits
Social security contributions are mandatory. They are made towards various provisions for cases like sickness, maternity, disability, old age, death, and occupational diseases or injuries. There is also an unemployment benefit under the employment law, into which both the employer and employee contribute.
The Investment Law Implications
The Investment Law No. 8 grants additional benefits and exemptions for businesses in Syria. It encourages local and foreign investors to establish, expand, and develop projects that contribute to the economy by offering incentives like customs exemption on imported equipment, and tax exemption for a period of seven years.
Business Environment and Employment in Syria
Operating a business and employing staff in Syria come with their unique advantages and challenges. The country is strategically located, providing vital trade corridors for businesses. However, the ongoing civil unrest has significantly affected its ability to maintain a sustainable business environment. As Syria rebuilds, understanding its employment law becomes even more crucial for business owners planning to venture into or expand their operations in the nation.
While the regulatory landscape for employment in Syria is quite comprehensive, the implementation and adherence can be influenced by various political and socio-economic factors. Therefore, businesses and potential employees should seek legal advice before entering into any employment contract.
Related Links:
International Labour Organization (ILO)
United States Department of Labor (DOL)
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)