Workers are constructing an overpass in the capital's Meanchey district On September 19. Heng Chivoan
The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training has said that the wages of construction workers will align with those of workers in other industries, after a union campaigned to urge the government to establish standardised wages for all.
The Building and Wood Workers Trade Union Federation of Cambodia (BWTUC) made the call ahead of the World Day for Decent Work 2023 on October 7.
BWTUC president Sok Kin said on October 8 that their advocacy on the World Day for Decent Work 2023 stems from their observation that working conditions in the construction sector lack sufficient financial safeguards for workers. He pointed out that to ensure decent working conditions, he is lobbying relevant ministries to establish a base wage for construction sector workers, in alignment with other industries.
He also suggested the introduction of legislation concerning health and safety, given the numerous hazards confronted by construction workers. This includes advocating for a law prohibiting the use of asbestos, which is known to lead to illnesses such as cancer and respiratory tract and lung inflammation.
He further highlighted the need to broaden the coverage of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) for construction workers, noting that the implementation of various NSSF benefits has been progressing “slowly” for workers in the sector.
“I believe that ensuring decent working conditions entails providing a safe workplace for all workers as well as enabling them to earn a decent living wage,” he expressed.
He also observed that the campaign had a significant presence in Phnom Penh and the provinces of Siem Reap, Kampot and Preah Sihanouk, attracting between 20 and 50 participants in each location. He added that determining the precise overall number of participants is challenging.
Labour ministry spokesperson Katta Orn affirmed that citizens possess rights and freedoms safeguarded by the Constitution and laws. The right to assemble, make demands or express oneself is protected by law and should be encouraged.
However, he stressed that actions that contravene the law and impinge on the rights and freedoms of others will be subject to legal consequences.
He further explained that the government prioritises the welfare and benefits of all workers, irrespective of their formal, informal or self-employed status.
“In the future, the consideration of minimum wage will extend to various sectors, including construction. This entails comprehensive research, evaluation, analysis and the establishment of a legal framework,” he stated.
