The Constitution explicitly protects the right of workers to associate in trade unions, and there is an active trade union movement. More than 300 unions represent over 100,000 workers, more than 20 percent of the total work force. In the EPZ, however, only 10 percent of the work force is unionized, and employers continued to intimidate prospective union members. Labor unions are independent from the Government. Unions press wage demands, establish ties to domestic political parties, and address political issues.
Unions are free to establish federations.
Moreover, the IRA states that worker participation in an unlawful strike is sufficient grounds for dismissal, but workers may seek remedy in the industrial court if they believe that their dismissal is unjustified. According to Ministry of Labor statistics, there were five work stoppages. Under the law, unions may and do establish ties with international labor bodies. The law protects the right of employees to bargain collectively with their employers. Wages are set by the National Remuneration Board, whose chairman is appointed by the Minister of Labor.