The Instructions for the Protection of Pregnant and Nursing Women, Persons with Disabilities, and Night Workers for the Year 2023 are now in force. These Instructions introduce important protections for vulnerable worker groups. Among the key provisions is the entitlement of pregnant employees to an additional one-hour break during their working hours, which is in addition to the standard break and does not result in any salary deductions. Furthermore, employers are required to provide safe and healthy resting spaces for pregnant and nursing employees. Companies must also update their official bylaws to include these provisions.

In another development, the Prime Minister’s cabinet has approved a proposal by the Ministry of Labor to amend the current Labor Law. The proposed amendments include an extension of maternity leave, among other provisions aimed at enhancing labor rights. These amendments are currently under review by the Legislation and Opinion Bureau and are expected to lead to the issuance of new regulations and instructions. We will provide updates as the review process progresses.