In any country, labor unions and employee organizations ensure that workers get fair representation and proper benefits programs. However, sometimes these situations can spiral out of control when proposed changes to government legislation are opposed by a country’s workforce. The complex language of these agreements require legal scrutiny, which is why many labor unions employ lawyers to handle the negotiation process. Currently, South Africa is embroiled in a conflict that is very appealing for lawyers specializing in this type of business law.

South Africa has labor laws that are essentially similar to those in the United States. The Basic Conditions of Employment Act and the Labour Relations Act dictate  a minimum wage, outline management practices and describe other workplace guarantees that are important to employees. The government of South Africa has recently proposed extensive reform to the legislation to help boost the economy. However, this is being met with widespread disapproval from both international and domestic experts.

“The IMF provides a clear message that the South African labour market is less competitive than other emerging markets in this regard, and it is essential for this imbalance to be urgently addressed in order to create more jobs,” said International Monetary Fund (IMF) CEO Neren Rau, according to Fin24. “In broad terms, the amendments in their current form will reduce the flexibility in the labour market and thereby dampen job creation.”

The Mail and Guardian reported Johannesburg-based labour lawyer Jonathan Goldberg said that he expects a flood of litigation and temporary employment to result from the imposed changes. Since this is the case, legal recruiting firms will be searching for international lawyers who can handle the intricacies of South African labor law. If you feel as if you can be of assistance, contact a quality attorney headhunter to help you scour the legal market.