The law prohibits forced or compulsory labor and is enforced. The minimum working age and compulsory education age is 16 years. The Ministry of Labor and Cooperation permits no exceptions. Most students continue in school until age 18. This affords a decent living for a worker and family.
Wages are generally higher than the minimum.
The law sets safety and health standards, and the judicial system monitors them. Most workplaces implement the standards effectively, but there are some exceptions, notably in the construction industries. Return to 1996 Human Rights Practices report home page. Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.