An Examination of the Public Aspects of Labor Law in the Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

In contemporary legal systems, labor law has expanded beyond the traditional boundaries of private law and has become one of the most important fields of state intervention and social justice. Although the relationship between employer and employee is formally based on contract and mutual consent, the economic and social inequality between the parties necessitates legal protection and public regulation. The purpose of this study is to examine the public aspects of labor law in the Islamic Republic of Iran and to analyze the role of public institutions in regulating and supporting labor relations. This research was conducted using a descriptive-analytical approach based on legal literature, labor law theories, and the provisions of Iranian labor legislation. The findings indicate that Iranian labor law possesses a dual character. While it is founded upon the employment contract, it simultaneously exhibits significant public law features through mandatory rules, protective policies, and extensive governmental involvement. The Iranian Labor Law promotes public welfare and social order through the regulation of minimum wages, working hours, occupational health and safety standards, protection of women and young workers, recognition of labor and employer organizations, establishment of labor dispute resolution bodies, and implementation of legal sanctions. Furthermore, the legislative branch plays a central role in enacting protective regulations, the executive branch is responsible for enforcement and supervision, and the judiciary contributes to safeguarding workers’ rights through dispute resolution and legal remedies. These institutional mechanisms collectively demonstrate the public nature of labor law in Iran. Nevertheless, challenges such as the expansion of temporary employment contracts, informal labor markets, weaknesses in regulatory enforcement, and the emergence of new forms of employment continue to affect the effectiveness of labor law. Overall, strengthening legal enforcement, promoting social dialogue, and adapting labor regulations to evolving labor market conditions can enhance the contribution of labor law to social justice, worker protection, and sustainable economic development.