INEFFECTIVE DISMISSAL DUE TO PREGNANCY WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF THE PRINCIPLE OF JOB STABILITY IN ECUADOR

Abstract

The study analyzes the issue of unjustified dismissals of pregnant workers, despite the legal protection recognized for them by the Constitution, the Labor Code, and international agreements. Therefore, the objective was to examine the issue of invalid dismissal due to pregnancy within the principle of job security in Ecuador, with the purpose of assessing its real impact as a tool for defending workers' rights. A gap was identified between regulations and practice, where many employers carry out illegitimate dismissals, generating economic, emotional, and psychological vulnerability for pregnant women. The methodology used is qualitative, based on a descriptive case study. Various sources and techniques were employed: documentary and regulatory review of legal, doctrinal, and jurisprudential texts; collection of qualitative data through interviews and surveys with affected women; consultation of specialized legal databases; use of digital platforms for qualitative analysis. It is concluded that this mechanism must strengthen its function to be an effective instrument of social justice and ensure real protection of the labor and human rights of pregnant workers.