Trade Union Criticizes Employers Hiring Private Detectives to Surveil Workers on Sick Leave

The United Trade Unions of Serbia "Sloga"

The United Trade Unions of Serbia "Sloga" voiced their concerns on Oct. 7 over a new trend to hire private investigators to control employees on medical leave, calling on workers to file criminal charges against the employers who had accepted it.

"These illegal activities constitute a violation of workers' fundamental human rights and a direct intrusion into their privacy, including personal health data checks," the Union cautioned, adding that the complaints can be filed with the police or a relevant prosecutor's office.  “Sloga”  also advised workers that before filing the criminal charges, they should gather evidence, including  testimonies, photos or recorded communications.

"It is very important to note that statistics regarding 'fake sick leaves,' have been manipulated – as many as 40,000 workers have been claimed to be on sick leave without a valid health reason," the Union said.

"Sloga" believes that the number cannot be substantiated, and that it would be useful for the public and all interested parties to explain what research methodology or sources were used to support the figure.