How can I enforce my employment rights?

It is very common for us to refer to employment rights that apply to all employees. Naturally, it is vital that these exist, however they are only useful if you know how to make use of them. Read on for your first steps and what else you can do.

Gather documentary evidence

To enforce your rights, you must be able to prove that you worked for a specific employer. Watch here to see what all the proofs are.

Which steps should I take to enforce my rights.

Carry out a negotiation yourself
Some employers are open to discussion. Colleagues are often able to help with this. If your employer mistreats you or doesn’t pay you however, you should leave. Employers who claim they will pay you later, rarely do.

Ask for help
It can sometimes help if a documented person goes with you to your employers or mediates for you. Mediation often has more chance of success than an official complaint. You may well have to compromise and you need to be able to rely on your employer to keep to the agreement. Your employer’s customers are sometimes also able to exert pressure on your employer.

If you cannot reach an agreement with your boss, the intermediary’s testimony may be helpful in any further steps. You can also always contact specialized services such as FAIRWORK Belgium or a union asking if they can help you.

Lodging a complaint or starting legal proceedings

You can also file a complaint with the labor inspectorate, you will find here more information.

Or you can also go to court here you will find the necessary information.

Important! Never sign anything (a document/contract) if you do not understand what it says! Ask someone else to read your contract and explain it to you before you sign it. Always ask for a copy of the contract for your own records.

Important! Never commit any criminal offence in order to enforce your rights. Never use threats, physical violence or theft. This could put your rights at risk.