The Social Value of Labour Law through the Prism of Needs of an Individual and Society

Abstract

This article raises and justifies a thesis on the social value of labour law as an independent branch of law. The authors conclude that the social value of labour law arises from the fact that it is based on a triad of social values that are of key significance for the development of civilization. The first element of the triad is labour since it represents the material basis for the development of society and the foundation for any civilization. Labour, as an activity aimed at meeting the needs of the individual and society, is an essential condition for human life and determines its quality. The second element is law as an institution of civilization: it is the mechanism for implementing the requirements that ensure the “self-preservation” and development of society. Because the law is a social regulator, it not only ensures that society as a whole functions normally, but it also ensures the safety of the individual in society, as well as fundamental rights and freedoms. The third element is socially significant needs, which cannot be satisfied without entering into public relationships regulated by laws. The authors conclude that, based on the theory of the hierarchy of needs and motivation of human activity and an analysis of international normative acts upholding basic human rights and freedoms, labour law as an independent branch of law possesses social value and maintains it in contemporary conditions. This conclusion is based on the fact that for the overwhelming majority of the able-bodied population, the satisfaction of basic needs (physiological and safety needs) necessary to support life is possible precisely by entering into labour relationships. At the same time, labour law affects the rate of the state’s economic growth, and its regulations impact both directly and indirectly on the creation and support of public peace in society. This confirms the thesis on the social value of labour law.