Libya's proposed unified salary structure has sparked controversy among various sectors. According to Dr. Muhammad Al-Warfli, an economics professor at the Libyan University, achieving fairness in wages does not necessarily mean giving all employees the same salary. Instead, it requires adopting clear and objective criteria that consider educational qualifications, job nature, professional risks, working hours, and ensuring that acquired financial rights are not undermined.
Dr. Al-Warfli's comments come as the Libyan Ministry of Finance, under the government of Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Al-Dbeiba, published a proposed draft law that includes job grade tables, basic salaries, and proposed allowances for various categories. The draft law proposes a basic salary starting from 1000 dinars for the first grade, 1710 dinars for the eighth grade, and up to 4912 dinars for the sixteenth grade.
The proposed law also includes allocating lump-sum financial amounts for sovereign positions, without additional bonuses, ranging from 9,000 dinars for heads and members of the executive, legislative, judicial, and oversight authorities, to 5,000 dinars for ministers, and 3,500 dinars for deputy ministers. Additionally, the draft introduces a performance-related distinction allowance, reaching up to 70% for those working in oversight bodies, 50% for doctors, university staff, and the oil sector, and 20% for teachers.
However, not all professional sectors have welcomed the proposed tables. The Union of the Health Sector Movement announced its rejection of the project in its current form, arguing that it does not achieve job fairness and does not consider the nature of tasks and risks faced by those working in the sector. The union criticized the disparity in the distinction allowance percentages between the same health cadres and between them and those working in other sectors.
The union also pointed out the absence of a fixed allowance for professional risks, shifts, and night work. They called for a review of job classifications, ensuring that previous financial gains are not undermined, and involving health unions in drafting the final tables. Dr. Al-Warfli suggested that involving employee representatives in reviewing the tables could help reduce objections and reach a more acceptable formula.
The proposed unified salary structure aims to bring about fairness and transparency in the Libyan job market. However, with various sectors expressing their concerns and objections, it remains to be seen how the government will address these issues and whether the proposed law will be amended to accommodate the demands of different professional groups.
The outcome of this process will likely have a significant impact on the Libyan job market and the lives of thousands of employees across various sectors. As the situation unfolds, it is essential to consider the diverse perspectives and concerns of all stakeholders involved to ensure a fair and equitable solution.
Key points
- The proposed unified salary structure in Libya has sparked controversy among various sectors, with some rejecting the plan as it stands.
- Dr. Muhammad Al-Warfli suggests involving employee representatives in reviewing the tables to reduce objections.
- The Union of the Health Sector Movement has rejected the project, citing concerns over job fairness and risks faced by health sector workers.
