Senegal Parliament pushes ahead with labor and social security code overhaul

Senegal's National Assembly was scheduled to debate two draft laws – the new Labour Code and the Social Security Code – but the plenary debate was postponed and the texts were returned to committee after the president of the Law Commission invoked internal rules. The reforms aim to modernise a labor framework that dates from 1997, introducing telework, digital administrative procedures, stronger safeguards against workplace harassment and violence, enhanced maternity, child and disability provisions, updated health and safety rules, and a new occasional work contract to replace daily contracts. They also ease renewal conditions for fixed‑term contracts, regulate international labour mobility, stress professional training, combat illegal employment, and create a social plan alternative to economic layoffs. The legislation strengthens social dialogue by revising union creation rules, reinstating arbitration and enshrining mediation for collective disputes.

Former labour minister Samba Sy criticised the process for insufficient consultation with employers and trade unions, warning that the lack of transparent discussion could inflame social tensions. Trade unions have also expressed concern that the new code does not adequately protect workers, particularly regarding access to permanent contracts.