Some people are concerned about how a reform of labour standards may affect them, but there are good reasons to be optimistic. The new Labour Law will provide many new job opportunities as is the case in other countries that have recently adopted similar laws, for instance Italy and Serbia. It is for the governments and institutions of BiH to decide on the specifics of the new Labour Law and in accordance with democratic procedures. In our view, the draft Labour Law presented by the Federation government is sound, balanced and in line with the principles of the European Union. While the overall aim should be to make the economy more competitive and ready for growth, workers’ fundamental rights need to be safe guarded. We believe that the new legislation does offer important improvements in workers’ rights, for instance by significantly increasing maternity and paternity leave.
Active participation by citizens is essential for a healthy democracy, whether in elections or other democratic actions, and is also vital for the EU integration process. Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, with the aim to publicly express certain opinions and disagreements.
ST