PHILIPSBURG:---The Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labor, Richinel Brug, through the Department of Labor, proudly announces the launch of its “Know Your Rights” campaign, a public awareness initiative aimed at strengthening the understanding of labor laws, promoting fair workplace practices, and encouraging compliance across St. Maarten.
This campaign responds to ongoing concerns about misunderstandings of employee rights and employer obligations. Through clear, accessible information, the Department seeks to ensure that both workers and employers are equipped with the knowledge needed to foster safe, fair, and productive working environments.
The “Know Your Rights” campaign will focus on key areas, including:
• Employee rights related to wages, working hours, and leave entitlements
• Employer obligations under applicable labor laws
• Procedures for reporting workplace grievances and disputes
• Guidance on sick leave, occupational safety, and workplace protections
As part of the initiative, the Department will roll out a series of public service announcements in English, Spanish, and Creole, along with digital content in the form of video skits, on the government's social media platform. As part of the campaign, interviews will also be conducted with the Country St. Maarten Labor Mediator and the Department of Labor head, as these two entities play an important role in the rights of workers and employers.
“An informed workforce is a protected workforce,” said Minister Brug. “This campaign is about empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to stand up for their rights while also supporting employers in meeting their legal responsibilities.”
