Government’s proposed labour reforms could finally extend employee protections to South Africa’s creative workforce but unions warn the real work starts now

South African laws protect victims, rendering many such clauses unenforceable, underlining that employers must ensure safe workplaces, not hide misconduct

Without a clear definition in law, the concept of ‘special leave’ can be misconstrued and used as a way to suspend employees

The CCMA uses dialogue based on conciliation and mediation to transform labour relations

The labour movement helped end apartheid and usher in Mandela’s coalition government. Its currently diminished position is cause for anxiety as the ANC forges new political alliances

A labour appeals court order reinstated the employees to their posts after they were outsourced to WNS eight years ago

Minister Thulas Nxesi has raised the earnings threshold for employees receiving certain protections under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act

Some blame labour protections and unions for South Africa’s economic malaise. But this claim lacks evidence and stands to leave us in an even worse position This content is restricted to registered users and subscribers. Get Your Free Account The Mail & Guardian is committed to providing all our readers with the best possible experience. Please register your free account now. Your registration is your first step to becoming an M&G community member. Register Registration enables: – M&G newsletters access – notifications – the best possible experience Already registered? Login here Want to subscribe and get even more benefits? Explore our subscription offers

While it is stressful to lose your job, it can open new doors for you