The new Equal Pay Act has passed the tripartite council, but still needs approval from the government and parliament. It sets a clear rule: men and women in the same or similar jobs cannot earn more than a five-percent difference. Companies with larger gaps must fix them by June next year—either by adjusting pay or giving an objective explanation. Employers will also need transparent pay criteria and regular, detailed wage reports.
The Labour Minister, Erik Tomáš (HLAS-SD), said that breaking the equal-pay rules could bring fines of up to 200,000 euros. He added that failing to submit the required reports could lead to penalties of up to 4,000 euros. Large companies will face tighter reporting duties: those with at least 250 employees must report every year; firms with at least 100 workers once every three years.
From the employers’ side, Rastislav Machunka of the Association of Employers’ Unions warned that the reform brings excessive bureaucracy, especially for smaller businesses. He argued that the Labour Ministry will also need more staff to evaluate the data, further expanding the state administration.
Trade unions welcome the changes. František Gajdoš, vice-president of the Confederation of Trade Unions, said that job ads will need to show whether the position is open to both men and women and must include a clear salary range.
If a company cannot justify pay differences, unions will join follow-up audits and help propose corrective steps. Employees also gain stronger protection: in court cases over unequal pay, they will no longer carry the burden of proof.
Source: STVR
