During the period of one-party rule, Frelimo tightly controlled Mozambique s labor movement. The Organization of Mozambican Workers, the country s major trade confederation, is now nominally independent. The Organization of Free and Independent Unions, a more independent group, was formed in 1994. All workers in nonessential services have the right to strike. The right to bargain collectively is legally protected.
Freedom of assembly is broadly guaranteed, but limited by notification and timing restrictions.
Women suffer from both legal and societal discrimination. Domestic violence is reportedly common, despite initiatives by the government and civic groups to reduce it. Despite some economic gains, the country remains among the world s poorest and suffers from one of the world s highest infant mortality rates.