The Global Legislative Update for March 2021 provides insights from Mercer consultants around the globe about key legal developments affecting employers’ benefit and human resource programs in various countries. Download the 56-page print-friendly PDF to read the full issue. Here are some highlights of the latest coverage:

Global

• COVID-19 roundup: Countries address workplace issues resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic (updated) 

Americas

• Mexico: Restrictions proposed on the use of outsourced labor
• United States: Department of Labor proxy voting rule finalized

Asia Pacific

• Australia: Superannuation pension reforms proposed
• Hong Kong: FAQs published on increased statutory maternity leave
• Malaysia: Eligibility criteria removed for EPF withdrawals
• New Zealand: Parliament mulls increased sick leave bill
• Philippines: Revised guidelines on hiring foreign nationals
• Vietnam: Decree on revised labor code published

EMEA

• European Union: Consultation opens on digital labor platforms
• Austria: Notice period harmonized for blue-and white-collar workers
• Belgium: Birth leave increases for fathers and same-sex partners
• France: Guidance issued on new supplementary defined benefit pensions
• Hungary: Minimum wage rate increased
• Ireland: Waiting period for illness benefit payment reduced
• Luxembourg: New legal regime outlined for teleworking
• Slovakia: Changes to labor code now effective
• South Africa: Annuitization of provident funds takes effect
• Spain: Remote working measures enacted
• Switzerland: Paid leave for caregivers expanded
• United Kingdom: Ruling finds Uber drivers are ‛workers’