Burkina Faso: New rules strengthen pay equality for temporary workers
Burkina Faso is tightening its rules on temporary employment and worker placement. A decree adopted on September 17, 2026, introduces new safeguards for workers hired through temporary employment arrangements.
Under the new framework, temporary workers must receive the same pay as permanent employees. This applies when they have equivalent professional qualifications and perform the same job within the user company.
The measure gives concrete effect to the new Labour Code adopted on May 6. The legislation establishes clearer rules for temporary employment. It limits worker assignments to a maximum of one year. It also introduces equal pay for employees working in comparable professional circumstances.
The People’s Legislative Assembly approved the Labour Code unanimously. A total of 59 members were present and voted in favour of the text.
Beyond wages, the reform seeks to clarify the position of temporary workers within companies. Their temporary status can no longer automatically justify lower pay. Professional qualifications, duties and responsibilities must be taken into account when determining remuneration.
The government is also introducing stricter requirements for employment agencies. Each placement activity must now operate under an appropriate licence. In addition, contracts cannot prevent a user company from directly hiring a temporary worker.
The new system also provides for a possible electronic register for temporary employment activities. It includes provisions concerning personal protective equipment for workers exposed to occupational risks.
For companies, the reform establishes clearer rules for managing temporary labour. For workers, it strengthens safeguards around pay and working conditions.
Overall, Burkina Faso is seeking to bring greater transparency and regulation to temporary employment. The reform places greater emphasis on professional qualifications and the actual work performed when determining workers’ rights and remuneration.
