Sao Tome and Principe - LaborSao Tome and Principe - Labor

A significant portion of STP’s workforce is young, relatively well–educated and multilingual (Portuguese and French).  Further training of the workforce is needed, however, for the economy to continue to develop.  The cost for basic unskilled labor is about USD 70 per month, and it is increasing over time.  Minimum wage, workday, overtime, paid annual vacations, and holidays are established by STP labor laws but generally only enforced for public servants.  Women are entitled to state-funded maternity leave for a period of 30 days before and 30 days after childbirth.  The law recognizes the right of workers to form and join independent unions, conduct legal strikes, and, in the private sector, bargain collectively.  While the law provides for the right to strike, including by government employees and other essential workers, the law strictly regulates this right.  The law does not prohibit anti-union discrimination or retaliation against strikers.  Labor laws, including occupational health and safety standards, are poorly enforced due to a lack of resources.  Workers’ collective bargaining agreements remain relatively weak due to the government’s role as the principal employer and key interlocutor in labor matters, including wages.  Over fifteen percent of children in Sao Tome and Principe are engaged in child labor, primarily in domestic service and street work.