Tag

Labor Rights

All articles tagged with #labor rights

business21 hours ago

Labubu supply chain under fire as NGO uncovers worker exploitation in China

An investigation by China Labor Watch found that Shunjia Toys, a Labubu supplier in Jiangxi, employed 16- and 17-year-olds with blank contracts, provided insufficient health and safety training, and imposed unrealistic production targets leading to excessive overtime. The findings illustrate broader labor-rights challenges in China’s manufacturing amid rising Labubu demand; Pop Mart says it is investigating and will strengthen audits, while Shunjia could not comment.

politics14 days ago

Federal Courts Block California's New Labor Law Initiatives

California has enacted a law empowering its labor board to regulate working conditions and union rights amid federal inaction, but the law faces legal challenges from the Trump administration and the NLRB, which argue it oversteps federal authority. Experts believe courts are unlikely to uphold the law due to preemption, potentially leaving workers without effective union protections if the law is overturned.

business3 months ago

Starbucks Employees Sue Over Unfair Dress Code

Starbucks employees in multiple states have filed lawsuits against the company, claiming that the new dress code requires them to purchase clothing at their own expense without reimbursement, violating labor laws. The employees also allege issues with unreimbursed phone and vehicle expenses. Starbucks defends its policies, citing low turnover and high employee satisfaction.

politics4 months ago

California Democrats Reach Climate Deal Amidst Energy and Cost Debates

California's legislative session concluded with significant Democratic wins on climate, housing, and labor, despite last-minute deals and frustrations over process and unresolved issues like property tax caps and environmental reviews. Key measures include climate and energy policies, housing near transit, union rights for gig workers, and funding for local news, with ongoing debates on antisemitism and AI oversight.

world7 months ago

Brazil Sues BYD Over Alleged Slave-Like Labor Conditions

Brazilian labor prosecutors sued Chinese carmaker BYD for allegedly involving human trafficking and slavery-like conditions at a factory in Brazil, seeking $45 million in damages and compliance with labor laws. BYD stated it is committed to human rights and is cooperating with authorities. The case follows reports of Chinese workers being brought illegally to Brazil under false promises of good working conditions.

business1 year ago

NLRB Declares 'Love Is Blind' Contestants as Employees, Setting Reality TV Precedent

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has filed a complaint against the producers of the reality TV show "Love Is Blind," arguing that contestants should be classified as employees, which would entitle them to worker protections. This marks the first time the NLRB has taken such action regarding reality show participants. The complaint follows charges by former contestants alleging unfair labor practices, including unlawful contract provisions and poor working conditions. The case could potentially lead to significant changes in the reality TV industry, including the possibility of unionization for contestants.

world-news1 year ago

Belgium Pioneers Labor Rights for Sex Workers with New Protections

Belgium has become the first country to grant sex workers the right to formal employment contracts, providing them with labor protections such as sick leave, maternity pay, and pensions. The new law, effective from Sunday, also ensures sex workers can refuse clients and set conditions for their work. This move follows Belgium's 2022 decision to decriminalize sex work and redefine pimping laws, aiming to protect sex workers from exploitation and discrimination. However, these protections apply only to those with employment contracts, excluding self-employed sex workers and those in pornography or striptease.

world1 year ago

Belgium Pioneers Legal Protections for Sex Workers with Maternity and Pension Rights

Belgium has enacted a groundbreaking law granting sex workers official employment rights, including maternity leave, health insurance, and pensions, marking a global first. This legislation aims to improve the safety and working conditions for sex workers, treating their profession like any other job. While some view this as a positive step towards recognizing sex workers' rights, critics argue it could normalize exploitation. The law also imposes strict regulations on employers, potentially reducing their power over workers. This move follows protests for better labor laws during the COVID-19 pandemic.

business1 year ago

Global Amazon Workers Strike for Better Conditions on Black Friday

Amazon workers in 20 countries plan to strike from Black Friday through Cyber Monday, protesting labor abuses, environmental issues, and threats to democracy. The "Make Amazon Pay" movement, organized by UNI Global Union and Progressive International, demands higher wages and the right to unionize. The strike could disrupt holiday deliveries, with significant participation expected in Germany, India, France, and Bangladesh. Amazon defends its labor practices, citing competitive pay and benefits, but faces ongoing criticism and unionization efforts globally.

business1 year ago

Amazon Workers Worldwide Plan Black Friday to Cyber Monday Strikes

Amazon workers in over 20 countries, including the U.S., plan to strike between Black Friday and Cyber Monday to protest labor abuses, environmental issues, and threats to democracy, as part of the "Make Amazon Pay" campaign organized by UNI Global Union and Progressive International. The strikes, supported by various unions and rights groups, aim to hold Amazon accountable and demand fair treatment and union representation for workers. Amazon has dismissed the claims, stating it provides good pay and benefits. This marks the fifth year of such strikes during the holiday shopping season.

business1 year ago

Amazon Workers Worldwide Plan Black Friday Strikes and Protests

Amazon workers across 20 countries plan to strike from Black Friday through Cyber Monday, protesting labor abuses, environmental issues, and threats to democracy. The "Make Amazon Pay" movement, organized by UNI Global Union and Progressive International, demands higher wages and the right to unionize. The strike could disrupt holiday deliveries, with significant participation expected in the U.S., Germany, and other countries. Amazon defends its labor practices, citing competitive pay and benefits, but faces ongoing criticism and unionization efforts.

law1 year ago

Amazon and SpaceX's Legal Battle Against Labor Board Faces Judicial Scrutiny

Amazon and SpaceX argued before the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is unconstitutional, claiming it violates the separation of powers and Seventh Amendment rights. However, the judges were unconvinced by the companies' appeals, questioning the timing and basis of their filings. The NLRB's representative argued for dismissal, stating the court lacks jurisdiction. Legal experts suggest the constitutionality of the NLRB was settled long ago, making the companies' claims unlikely to succeed.