Jordan: Women continue to be exploited by their employers, denied basic rights - study

Jordan Times
22 April 2009

AMMAN - Despite laws and regulations protecting women's labour rights, they continue to be exploited by their employers and denied their basic rights, according to a study released on Tuesday.


The study, carried out by the National Council for Family Affairs (NCFA), attributed the practice to the fact that the majority of working women are ignorant about their rights guaranteed by labour laws.


NCFA Secretary General Haifa Abu Ghazaleh said the study examined and analysed laws and regulations governing women's employment to provide a supportive environment that encourages women to take part in the country's sustainable development process.


"The council seeks to study and analyse all laws related to the family and women, and find legal loopholes that prevent women from enjoying their rights endorsed by international conventions and human rights principles," Abu Ghazaleh said yesterday.


The study called for awareness-raising programmes to acquaint women with their rights and responsibilities, particularly those pertaining to working hours, night shifts, minimum wage, dangerous workplaces and types of occupations that negatively affect women's health.


The study also proposed legal amendments to articles that hinder gender equality such as the clause related to minimum wage when working conditions are similar between men and women.


Abu Ghazaleh said the study also recommended establishing nurseries in institutions for children of working mothers.


The NCFA secretary general noted that the study will be sent to the Lower House and Senate, as well as to legal advisers and those concerned with family and women's issues.


Established in 2001, the NCFA is a civil society organisation which supports, coordinates and facilitates the work of its partners and relevant institutions that are involved and influential in the field of family affairs.


The council seeks to contribute to a better quality of life for Jordanian families through a national vision that supports the country's development policies and enables the family to attain optimal aspirations.

By Hana Namrouqa