Lawmakers have passed a bill that aims to help middle-aged retirees and those over 65 return to the workforce with dignity.
The law is part of a government plan to tackle a looming shortage of labor, a problem set to grow as Taiwan’s population ages and its birthrate stagnates.
Under the law, workplace discrimination against those over 45 is illegal. Employers found to discriminate against employees that fall into this category could be fined up to NT$1.5 million (US$50,000).
Wu Yu-chin of the majority Democratic Progressive Party is one of the lawmakers behind the bill. On Friday, she said that there is not enough legal protection for those willing to return to the workforce after retirement. She said the new law guarantees these people an equal opportunity. Wu also said that boosting the participation of middle-aged people and senior citizens in the workforce will in turn boost their financial security.