Government extends protections for single parents and family caregivers
Parents who are raising their children alone will not be required to work at night. Additionally, parental leave will count towards the pension contribution period. These provisions are included in a package of legislative amendments approved by the government, which also involves the ratification of Convention No. 156 of the International Labour Organisation regarding workers with family responsibilities.
The Minister of Labor and Social Protection, Natalia Plugaru, announced that the new document aims to protect employees who care for children, elderly parents, or other individuals requiring support.
“This convention seeks to ensure that employees are not disadvantaged at work in these situations,” the minister stated during the Government meeting on June 17.
The ratification of this convention reaffirms the Republic of Moldova’s commitment to creating fair working conditions for all employees, regardless of gender, and to promoting the active participation of women in the labor market. Additionally, these measures aim to reduce discrimination and develop more flexible, family-friendly working conditions.
To align national legislation with the provisions of the convention, authorities are proposing amendments to the Labor Code and the Law on the Public Pension System. A significant change will include the introduction of the term “employee with family responsibilities.”
"We propose to recognize in the Labor Code the status of employees with family responsibilities who care for children, parents, or relatives with disabilities," said Natalia Plugaru.
The project also aims to strengthen guarantees for single parents. Night work will only be permitted with their written consent, provided that childcare arrangements are in place during those hours.
Another amendment addresses social security rights. The duration of paternity leave will be counted toward the pension contribution period, ensuring that fathers involved in childcare are not disadvantaged when calculating their pensions.
ILO Convention No. 156, adopted in 1981, is a significant international instrument that recognises the importance of supporting individuals balancing family and work responsibilities.
This convention ensures equal opportunities and treatment for both men and women with family responsibilities, as well as for other employees. As of now, the Convention has been ratified by 45 countries.
