Labor Rights Report: Chile

Abstract

[Excerpt] The Chilean Constitution provides for the fundamental rights of equal treatment under the law, guarantees every person the right to freely choose work, the right of freedom of association, the right to collective bargaining, and a prohibition against all forms of forced work, with the exception of military conscription. The Labor Code, in turn, governs specific labor and employment issues, including: Conditions of employment and work, including employment contracts, the enforcement of wage, hour, and benefit laws, personnel management, and employment termination and dismissal; Trade union affairs; Collective bargaining and the right to strike, mediation, and arbitration; Occupational safety and health; Equal opportunity and non-discrimination: Social security, including medical care, maternity, old-age, disability, survivor benefits, workman’s compensation, and unemployment; Employment policy and training and job placement.