The vulnerability of the labor rights of mining workers in the El Pache Industrial Park, province of El Oro

Abstract

This article examines the violations of the rights of informal workers in the gold mining park in the El Pache area of ​​the Portovelo canton, province of El Oro. Portovelo, being considered the first mining center in Ecuador, its economy is based on commercialization of gold to a greater degree compared to the rest of economic activities. This study identifies factors that contribute to poor working conditions, as well as establishing measures to reduce risks and promote better working conditions. Through a mixed methodology such as interviews, document reviews and statistical analysis, urgent topics that require the attention of government authorities come to light. A broad understanding of violations of workers' rights requires consideration of aspects such as labor regulations, employment contracts, working hours, appropriate remuneration and benefits, health and safety at work, termination of contracts and union dynamics. Analyzes describe that these violations are often related to poor implementation and compliance by employers, poor contractual agreements, non-payment of overtime, lack of social benefits and weak or non-existent collective bargaining contribute to the violations of labor rights, which establishes the urgent need to improve supervision by the entities in charge of effective regulatory compliance.