Fair Treatment

Equal Pay

In accordance with the Constitution of Sri Lanka, all persons are equal before the law and entitled to equal protections of the law. It also prohibits discrimination on the ground of sex besides many other grounds. However, neither in Constitution nor in Labour Laws, we find a provision requiring equal pay for work of equal value.

Source: §12 of the Constitution of Sri Lanka 1978

Non-Discrimination

In accordance with the Constitution, there cannot be any discrimination on the grounds of race, religion, language, caste, sex, political opinion, place of birth or any one of such grounds. There is no special provision in constitution or labour laws to prevent discrimination in employment related matters. Laws also prohibit discrimination against disabled persons in matters of employment as well as workers involved in union activities.

Constitution of Sri Lanka gives every person the right to apply to the Supreme Court in respect of violations of fundamental rights by the State (executive action). It is not clear whether individuals can obtain redressal with respect to discrimination by the private sector employers.

Source: §12 & 17 of the Constitution of Sri Lanka 1978

Equal Choice of Profession

In accordance with the Sri Lankan Constitution, Every citizen is entitled to the freedom to engage by himself or in association with others in any lawful occupation, profession, trade, business or enterprise. However, certain labour law prohibit employment of women in the same industries as men (especially mining sector).

Source: §14(1)(g) of the Constitution of Sri Lanka1978; §02 of the Employment of Females in Mines Ordinance, 1937; §86 of Factories Ordinance