Legal framework The right to work under favourable conditions is guaranteed by section 8 (a) and (b) of the Constitution. The Constitution clearly states that the State shall direct its policies in ensuring that every citizen without discrimination on any grounds shall have the opportunity to secure suitable employment and adequate means of livelihood and that condition of work is fair, just and humane. In addition to 8 (a) and (b), section 8(e) provides that the State shall direct its policies towards ensuring that there is equal pay for equal work without discrimination on account of sex, and that adequate and satisfactory remuneration is paid to all persons in employment. The Labour Laws of Sierra Leone as well protects workers in terms of conditions of employment and guarantees this right. General practise To give effect to the constitution and to the labour laws of Sierra Leone, an Industrial Court has been established, which is presided over by a former Supreme Court Judges. The Office of the Ombudsman, established by the constitution also handles investigations of actions taken or omitted to have been taken by any Government Department or Ministry, Statutory Cooperation or Institution set up entirely or partly out of public funds or actions taken in the administration of public offices. No law in Sierra Leone prevents women from doing any sort of work. Nonetheless, traditional and gender stereotype perceptions prevent women from rendering certain services. Despite the existence of laws protecting all individuals against discrimination, there have been cases of discrimination against women and the disabled in terms of acquiring jobs and equal pay for the same work. However, with the enactment of protective laws against discrimination such as the Disability Act and the establishment of the Industrial Court to handle complaints arising from such treatments, there is hope for improvement. Also the implementation of resolution 1325 for the participation of women in decision making in addition, the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission for Sierra Leone’s recommendation for a 30% participation of women in politics will be very instrumental in addressing this situation. There is high level of youth unemployment. However, in line with the constitutional provision for the State to formulate policies geared towards ensuring that all citizens secure an adequate means of livelihood and suitable employment, a National Youth Commission which was established by the National Youth Commission Act of 2009 was formed in 2010, and entrusted with the functions, among others, of seeking the interest of youth in various areas, secure their employment and to empower them to develop their potential, creativity and skills for national development. The minimum wage in Sierra Leone is Le 150,000.00 (USD 34). There is need for concern in this area. Efforts are currently being made to review the minimum wage. Wages however differ from institution to institution and there is a huge difference in the salaries paid by the government form that paid by private institutions for the same work done. The various collective bargaining powers make provision for protection against occupational accidents and diseases. Prior to 2001, Sierra Leone had the government ‘no contribution pension scheme’ and ‘private pension scheme’ that were undertaken by private institutions In 2002, the National Social Security Insurance Trust (NASSIT) was established under the NASSIT ACT (2001) which made it compulsory for every worker to contribute to the scheme. The issue of validation of workers for past services rendered is still one of the challenges faced by NASSIT. 19