Observation (CEACR) - adoptée 2001, publiée 90ème session CIT (2002)

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government’s report.

With reference to the comments of the Unitary Confederation of Honduran Workers (CUTH) alleging instances of discrimination and sexual harassment, the Committee notes the promulgation of Decree No. 34-2000 of 11 April 2000, approving the Equal Opportunities for Women Act. It notes that, in respect of equality of opportunity in work and social security, the Act affords women workers the following protection, inter alia: pregnancy testing may not be set as a prerequisite for employment; employment offers may not specify requirements based on sex, age, religion or marital status; effective protection of women during pregnancy is promoted; women workers infected by HIV/AIDS are protected; equal participation by women at all levels of public administrations is promoted; and penalties are established for the discriminatory acts in question. The Committee trusts that the adoption of this Act and the policies developed by the National Institute for Women, together with the other steps taken by the Government, will make an effective contribution to preventing, eliminating and punishing any such actions as constitute a distinction, exclusion or preference based on sex, the effect of which is to nullify or impair equality of opportunity in employment and occupation. The Committee requests the Government to report on the application and effective observance of the new Act, providing more specific information as asked in the direct request.

The Committee raises other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.