The talk of rights is one that will or cannot be easily addressed. But basic worker’s rights are a must in every society.
Right to a salary and housing that meets the basic needs of every individual is a must.
The government had reduced the number of hours’ state employees have to work, freeing employees to spend more time with their families. However, the biggest issue facing Maldivian workers is the issue of salaries. A low salary, many argue, will have zero impact on the lives of public.
Civil Service Commission President Dr. Ali Shameem has been publicly noting these issues. He had been advocating for higher salaries, urging the government to take action as the living costs had risen astronomically. Dr. Shameem said that salaries and increments of the civil servants had not increased in many years.
Larger salaries do not always equate to satisfaction; the plight of many Parliamentarians is sufficient proof of this statement. Nevertheless, almost all citizens agree that bringing a change to the salaries of the public service employees will improve their lives, allowing them to lead dignified lives.
Around 50 percent of civil service do not earn MVR 5000 on a monthly basis. The resultant gap spews a host of many other issues. Integrity can only be achieved if basic needs are met.
Civil service employees can sign any number of integrity pledges. ACC President says the pledges are signed to remind employees of their mandate. The sad part is that the very people, leaders and heads of agencies and institutions, fail to uphold the very integrity they preach about. Therefore, many argue that the plight of the ordinary person must be taken into account seriously.
Workers’ rights must be secured!
