DOL, Dominican Republic Enhance Worker Rights with Renewed Partnership
The collaboration focuses on educating workers and improving enforcement efforts.
- By Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Mar 20, 2024
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has renewed its partnership with the Dominican Republic. The collaboration aims to educate Dominican nationals working in the U.S. about their rights under labor laws, including safety, health and wage standards.
The renewal ceremony saw U.S. Deputy Undersecretary for International Affairs Thea Lee and Dominican Republic Ambassador Sonia Guzman reaffirm their commitment. They were joined by officials from throughout other U.S. labor departments.
“This partnership with the government of the Dominican Republic will ensure that their citizens working in the U.S. are aware of the protections our nation’s labor laws provide, including the rights to a safe and healthy workplace and to be paid all of their hard-earned wages,” said Deputy Undersecretary Lee said in a statement. “They should also know that they have the ability to exercise their labor rights freely, have a voice in the workplace and can participate in our country’s strong economy.”
In addition to educating workers, the collaboration aims to enhance the enforcement of U.S. labor laws, particularly in sectors prone to violations such as high-risk and low-wage industries. By working closely with the Dominican Republic's representatives, the DOL hopes to improve its outreach and identify workplace issues more effectively.
Ambassador Guzman highlighted the broader mission of the partnership, which extends beyond governmental ties to include engagement with communities, companies and organizations within the U.S., especially those within the Hispanic community.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.