Substantial modification of working conditions in Peru: current problems and the need for regulatory action

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47308/rdpt.v9i13.1595
Keywords: working conditions, managerial authority, right to modify, substantial modification and non-essential modification

Abstract

This paper is motivated by the need to regulate the procedure by which an employer may substantially modify the terms of employment governing the relationship between the employer and the employee, given that the relevant regulations have not been amended since 1995. This paper addresses the essential elements of the employment contract, namely, the personal provision of services, compensation, and subordination, the latter of which underpins the employer’s managerial authority in governing the employment relationship. Working conditions can be classified as non-essential or essential. The former may be unilaterally modified by the employer based on the employer’s authority known as ius variandi; an example is a change in a worker’s duties. In the case of the latter, they cannot be unilaterally modified by the employer, since doing so would radically alter the employment relationship. It has been concluded that there is a need to establish regulatory guidelines for the procedure an employer must follow to substantially modify working conditions, thereby preventing arbitrary actions that could harm the employee.

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Author Biography

Bismarck Jefferson Seminario Morante, Estudio jurídico Bismarck Seminario Abogados, Lima, Peru

Master’s degree in Labor and Social Security Law from the National University of Trujillo. Completed coursework toward a Ph.D. in Law and Political Science from the National University of San Marcos. Specialization in Labor Law from the University of Salamanca, Spain. Specialization in Labor Case Law from the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. Member of the Peruvian Law Society. Former judge of the Superior Court of Justice of Lima. Former confidential secretary of the Supreme Court of the Republic. Former legal advisor to the Inspection Intelligence Directorate (DINI) of SUNAFIL. Currently a trial attorney and legal director at the Bismarck Seminario Abogados law firm. University professor at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

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Published
2026-06-30
How to Cite
Seminario Morante, B. J. (2026). Substantial modification of working conditions in Peru: current problems and the need for regulatory action. The Review of Procedural Labor Law, 9(13). https://doi.org/10.47308/rdpt.v9i13.1595
Issue
Vol 9 No 13 (2026): January–June
Section
Research Articles
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