In Guatemala, women represent more than 40% of the workforce. Being a woman and a worker is not easy. But it is a source of pride. Day after day, thousands of women support their families, drive businesses, and lead companies. And while we often do it with strength and heart, we must also do it with knowledge: because knowing our labor rights is not optional, it is a tool for empowerment.

 

YOUR RIGHTS AS A WORKING WOMAN:

1. Equal pay
2. Protection during pregnancy and maternity You have the right to:

• Not being fired for being pregnant.
• 84 days of maternity leave (30 before and 54 after childbirth).
• Breastfeeding breaks during the working day (one hour daily until the baby is 10 months old).
• All this with full salary.

3. Decent working hours and breaks
   No woman can be forced to work excessive hours without adequate pay. You also have the right to your weekly rest days and paid annual leave.
4. Environment free from violence or discrimination
   Workplace harassment and sexual harassment are prohibited. If you feel that a boss, colleague, or client has crossed the line of respect, you can contact Human Resources or file a formal complaint.
5. Right to organize You can form or join a trade union to defend fairer working conditions.

 

6. Adoption leave

When adopting a child, you must present the adoption paperwork to your employer if you are requesting a leave of absence or permission to not go to work for 54 days with pay.

7. Leave for unintentional abortion

If you suffered a loss due to health complications, you are entitled to a 15-day break or until full recovery, as determined by your doctor.

8. Creation of children's centers or nurseries

If your workplace has more than 30 employees, the employer must provide a suitable place where you can leave children under 3 years old while you work. The children must be under the care of a responsible adult hired and paid by the employer.

 

“ Human rights are women’s rights, and women’s rights are human rights.” Hillary Clinton

 

And if you are a businesswoman or entrepreneur:

You also have obligations:

• Comply with the labor rights of your workers.
• Formalization of written employment contracts and their registration.
• Timely and full payment of salaries, benefits, bonuses, overtime, among others.
• Register with IGSS if you have more than 3 employees.
• Implementation of occupational hygiene and safety measures.
• Create a safe environment where your female employees feel valued and respected.
• Non-discrimination.
• The Political Constitution of the Republic of Guatemala establishes that the labor rights of workers are inalienable and must be interpreted in a manner favorable to them. 

Being a female entrepreneur means being an example and promoter of good labor practices.

 

Often, women don't claim what is rightfully theirs out of fear or lack of knowledge. Talking about these issues isn't complaining; it's building a fairer country. With knowledge, you can defend yourself and pave the way for others.

CONCLUSION:

Informing ourselves is not just a personal act, it is a silent revolution that transforms homes, businesses and societies.

From the full-time worker to the businesswoman who leads her own business, we all deserve decent working conditions and respect.

Start today: get informed, share, demand. Because your work is valuable, but you are worth even more.

Because it's not enough to work hard, you also have to work with rights.

Know the law. Use it. Share it.

By Annie Tello

Lawyer and advocate for women's rights