Compliance with Section 6 (1) of the Labour Act (Chapter 28:01) (Protection of employees’ right to fair labour standards), within Chinese enterprises in Zimbabwe: the HRM Practitioners’ Perspective

Abstract

This study examines the Chinese employer compliance with section 6 (1) of Zimbabwe’s Labour Act, aimed at protecting employees’ right to fair labour standards. Chinese business investments in African countries is substantial. Zimbabwe’s economic development and employment creation prospects are partly attributed to the Chinese investments, with the government envisioning more strengthening of economic relations with China. Nevertheless, concerns regarding human rights abuse in Chinese-run organisations continue to be a key challenge with claims of violations of the right to fair labour standards an issue of interest in the country. The study explored the views of 14 human resource management practitioners within Chinese enterprises, exploring their experiences and perceptions regarding employer compliance to fair labour standards. The findings reflect that employer compliance with the legal provisions is a major challenge. Employees continue to experience unfair labour standards in many Chinese organisations in Zimbabwe while the role of the HR practitioners within these organisations is overlooked. There is a need to constantly conscientise Chinese investors of the country’s labour laws to ensure adherence to fair labour standards.