The Philippines has banned companies from forcing women to wear high heels.
Citing health and safety issues, the Philippine labour department said companies can no longer compel women to wear high heels of more than once inch, unless they wish to.
The order, which came into effect yesterday (Sunday, September 24), followed a complaint by four women to a labour union.
The move is expected to prove popular with shop workers, flight attendants and other professionals who spend long hours on their feet.
The government’s labour department said that wearing high heels while standing for prolonged periods of time may cause sore feet and aching muscles but also “hazardous” pressure on joints.
Alan Tanjusay, spokesman for the Associated Labor Unions, said: “It’s a form of torture. It’s a form of oppression and slavery. Imagine having to endure that pain for eight to 10 hours a day.
“It’s also a form of sexism because culturally employers say women wearing high heels look taller and sexier and are then more attractive, more effective in selling products. They don’t know the women are suffering.”
First nationwide ban
The government also said that companies must give workers who spend a long time on their feet rest periods or seats to reduce the time they spend standing or walking.
It is believed that the Philippines is the first country in the world to impose a nationwide ban. In April, the Canadian province of British Columbia issued a similar order.
In the same month, the UK government rejected a recommendation from lawmakers to outlaw such practice, after saying existing laws were adequate to deal with gender discrimination.
Campaigners have long argued dress codes that require female employees to wear make up or high heels at work are sexist and discriminatory.
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