Your Rights at Work

This page explains key labour rights in Malawi and what CIAWU has achieved through collective bargaining.

Basic rights come from laws like the Employment Act and Labour Relations Act, and unions can negotiate improvements on top.

Key laws to know

The Employment Act covers issues like contracts, wages, working hours, leave and termination.

The Labour Relations Act protects the right to join unions, bargain collectively and take industrial action.

Download full Acts:

You can also access official copies from the Ministry of Labour and MalawiLII.

Workers are entitled to annual leave, sick leave and maternity leave, with details set in law and company policies.

CIAWU has negotiated improved parental leave in some workplaces, including 4 months maternity and 1 month paternity leave for certain retail workers.

Workers have protection against unfair dismissal, discrimination and harassment at work.

CIAWU supports members who face unpaid wages, unfair dismissals or harassment to resolve cases with employers or through legal channels.