Labour arbitration committee to ensure justice in workplace

Muscat: In a landmark move to strengthen workplace justice, Oman’s Ministry of Labour has established the Collective Labour Disputes Arbitration Committee through Ministerial Decision No. 320/2024.

Chaired by Supreme Court Judge Dr. Nasser Rashid Al Mushaifri, the committee convened its first session at the Directorate General of Labour Welfare on Wednesday, setting a robust foundation for resolving collective labour disputes with a focus on balance, fairness, and protection of rights for all parties involved.

The formation of the committee is in line with Article 121 of the Labour Law, which mandates the establishment of a specialised body within the Ministry to handle collective labour disputes. The committee is structured to represent all stakeholders fairly, comprising a president from the courts of appeal, an arbitrator from the Ministry of Labour, an employer-selected arbitrator chosen by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and an arbitrator for workers designated by the General Federation of Workers.

Each party involved, including the Ministry, employers, and workers’ federation, must also appoint substitute arbitrators to ensure continuity in case of absences.

The committee operates on a stringent timeline to expedite resolutions, with hearings scheduled within fifteen days of a dispute request and final decisions issued within one month. Notification of hearings is promptly shared with the Minister of Labour, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the General Federation of Workers, who must confirm their appointed representatives within a one-month period.

In its operations, the committee is guided by existing legal frameworks, but where gaps exist, it will rely on Islamic Sharia, customary practices, and principles of fairness, all while considering prevailing economic and social conditions.

Decisions are determined by majority vote; in case of a tie, the president’s vote prevails. Committee rulings are final, with appeals permissible only before the Supreme Court. Both parties receive the decision by registered letter within three days, and the dispute file is retained for three years by the competent authority, with either party allowed to obtain a copy of the decision. The committee has the authority to call upon external experts to assist in its duties, although these individuals will not have voting rights.

Munir bin Salem Al Rawas, Secretary of the Committee and Director of the Labour Negotiations Department, highlighted the committee’s commitment to equitable resolution processes. He said: “The Ministry of Labour is committed to exerting all efforts to resolve labour disputes and address challenges between the parties in production. In line with these efforts, and under Article 121 of the Labour Law, the Collective Labour Disputes Arbitration Committee has been established with clear roles and operating guidelines.

The committee is a cornerstone in promoting justice within the work environment, providing objective and effective dispute resolution between workers and employers. By evaluating cases based on evidence and legal standards, the committee’s decisions aim to protect the rights of all parties and foster a balance of interests. Its decisions are final and may only be appealed to the Supreme Court.”

The formation of the committee marks a significant step forward in strengthening Oman’s labour dispute resolution framework and reinforces the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of both workers and employers.

The committee's transparent and structured approach is expected to promote a more harmonious work environment and strengthen lasting workplace stability.