Topics such as mental health, and compliance in corporate environments were debated by experts at a meeting organized by TozziniFreire.
On May 27, TozziniFreire hosted the event "Hot Topics in Latin America - Labor Overview." The initiative, dedicated to discussing key issues on the region’s labor agenda, is a result of a partnership with L&E Global, an international alliance of law firms focused on labor law. The meeting brought together leaders and experts from different Latin American countries to discuss the transformations shaping the future of work.
Alexandre Cardoso, partner at TozziniFreire Advogados and head of the Labor practice, emphasized the importance of global collaboration in seeking innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. The event facilitated the exchange of perspectives, especially in light of a constantly evolving regulatory environment.
"International alliances play a fundamental role, such as L&E Global, which brings together professionals from different areas. We proudly represent Brazil in this context. I see great value in sharing experiences and practices that can enrich the management of organizations in a constantly evolving world," Cardoso stated.
Workforce transformation and flexibility
Led by Alexandre Cardoso and Gabriela Lima, partner at TozziniFreire, the first panel, “Managing the Modern Workforce in LATAM: compliance, flexibility, and litigation risk,” featured Barbara Zlatar, partner at Cariola Diez Pérez-Cotapos in Chile; Oscar de la Vega, founding partner at De la Vega & Martinez Rojas in Mexico; and Thalita Sulas, general counsel at Embraer in Brazil.
The discussion addressed the pace of change in the workplace, especially with regard to flexibility and adaptation to new technologies. Panelists shared experiences related to the implementation of hybrid work models and their implications for productivity and employee well-being. They also discussed the importance of creating an organizational culture that values adaptability and open communication, while presenting case studies of companies that have stood out during this transition.
Regulatory and social challenges
The second panel, “Harassment in the workplace: prevention, investigations, and employer accountability,” was moderated by Alexandre Cardoso and Mariana Firotto, counsel at TozziniFreire, and featured Amália Costa, legal director at Volkswagen in Brasil; Ignácia Lopez, partner at Cariola Diez Pérez-Cotapos in Chile; and Nicolas Grandi, partner at Allende & Brea in Argentina.
The discussion focused on the regulatory and social challenges companies face in a post-pandemic global landscape. Experts addressed the need to implement policies that safeguard employees’ mental health and promote an inclusive work environment. Audience interaction enriched the debate, with questions raising issues related to corporate social responsibility.
Mental health and psychosocial risks in the workplace
Moderated by Gabriela Lima and Leonardo Bertanha, partner at TozziniFreire, the third panel, “Mental health at work & psychosocial risks: from ESG commitments to legal liability,” featured Alejandro Castellanos, partner at Lopez y Asociados S.A.S.; Frank Lombardi, legal manager at Siemens Brasil; and Regina de la Vega, senior attorney at De la Vega & Martinez Rojas in Mexico.
The third panel focused on the growing relevance of mental health in the workplace and the need for multidisciplinary approaches to addressing psychosocial risks. Panelists shared their perspectives on how representation positively impacts organizational culture and innovation. They also discussed the need for policies that ensure a safe space for all employees, as well as examples of companies that have successfully implemented these initiatives in line with regulatory requirements and ESG commitments.
Challenges and innovation in the workplace
The event not only provided a space for learning and the exchange of experiences, but also highlighted the importance of a collective commitment to building more inclusive and healthier workplaces.
With a practical and regional perspective, the event aimed to offer up-to-date and strategic legal analyses on sensitive issues affecting companies operating in Latin America. The initiative also highlighted the importance of integrating local and international perspectives in developing labor solutions aligned with market transformations, social expectations, and corporate governance demands.
