LABOR RIGHTS IN PAKISTAN

Author: Muhammad Nadeem Bhatti

Labor rights are the backbone of a just society, ensuring the fair and ethical treatment of individuals in the workforce. They encompass fundamental principles such as reasonable wages, safe working conditions, the right to collective bargaining, and protection against discrimination and exploitation. Upholding these rights is vital as they guarantee workers’ dignity, safety, and well-being. Also, they serve as a shield against unfair labor practices, exploitation, and abuse. Ensuring fair compensation for labor not only supports individuals and their families but also contributes to broader economic stability. When workers are fairly compensated and provided with safe working conditions, their productivity and morale increase, benefiting both employers and the economy at large. Moreover, labor rights are linked to human rights. They recognize the inherent worth and value of each worker, irrespective of their background, gender, race, or social status.

In Pakistan, labor rights constitute a crucial aspect of social and economic development. Embedded within the country’s legal framework and international conventions, these rights aim to ensure fair treatment, humane working conditions, and adequate compensation for the labor force. However, despite these provisions, the effective implementation of labor rights faces numerous challenges. The Constitution of Pakistan, specifically in Articles 11 to 27, guarantees various labor rights, including the right to fair wages, safe working conditions, and social security, and prohibits child and forced labor. Additionally, Pakistan guarantees international conventions such as the International Labor Organization’s (ILO) core conventions, committing to uphold fundamental labor rights. Minimum wages are a fundamental component of labor rights, providing a baseline income for workers. As of my last update, Pakistan’s minimum wage varied across provinces and sectors. For instance, Punjab set its minimum wage at PKR 32,000 per month, while other provinces have a little less. However, these figures might have been revised since then to align with the changing economic landscape and the cost of living. One of the primary strategies to improve labor opportunities is the effective enforcement of existing labor laws. Despite having robust legislation in place, the implementation often falls short for various reasons, including inadequate resources and limited awareness among both employers and employees. Strengthening the enforcement mechanisms and increasing awareness through education campaigns can significantly enhance compliance with labor laws.

Furthermore, empowering labor unions and civil society organizations is crucial in advocating for workers’ rights. These entities play a pivotal role in representing workers’ interests, negotiating better wages and working conditions, and addressing grievances. However, in Pakistan, there have been incidents of restrictions on union activities, hindering their effectiveness. Ensuring the freedom of association and collective bargaining rights is essential for a more equitable labor landscape. Also, skill development and vocational training programs play a pivotal role in attractive labor opportunities. Many workers in Pakistan lack the required skills demanded by evolving industries. By investing in training programs that align with market needs, workers can acquire relevant skills, thereby increasing their employability and access to better-paying jobs. Government-industry collaborations can facilitate the establishment of vocational centers and education programs to address this skill gap. Furthermore, fostering a culture of dialogue and negotiation between employers and workers is essential. This involves promoting collective bargaining rights, allowing workers to negotiate better wages and improved working conditions collectively. Strengthening mechanisms for dispute resolution and ensuring access to justice for labor-related grievances are equally vital steps in safeguarding labor rights.

Promoting the formalization of the labor sector is imperative. A significant portion of Pakistan’s workforce gets less than they deserve. That is why they want formal contracts, social security, and legal protections. Integrating these workers into the formal sector while ensuring social security benefits can uplift their status and safeguard their rights. This could involve providing incentives to informal businesses to formalize their operations and ensure compliance with labor regulations. In addition, ensuring workplace safety and health standards is vital. Many laborers in Pakistan work in hazardous conditions without adequate preventive measures. Strengthening occupational safety regulations and conducting regular inspections to ensure compliance are crucial steps to protect workers’ well-being.Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices can also contribute significantly to promoting labor rights. Encouraging businesses to adhere to ethical labor practices, such as fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights, can create a more conducive environment for the labor force. These initiatives within the corporate sector can positively impact the lives of workers. Moreover, using technology and innovation can create new avenues for employment. Encouraging entrepreneurship, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through digital platforms, and promoting e-commerce can generate job opportunities, especially for the youth. Initiatives focusing on digital skills and online marketplaces can empower individuals to create their businesses or find employment in emerging sectors.

In this regard, the CM Punjab (Mr. Mohsin Naqvi) has advised Naeem Ghous (Secretary, Department of Labor and Human Resources Pakistan), Ms. Sayedah Kulsoom (Director General of Labor Welfare,Punjab), and Nadeem Akhtar (Director General of Labor Welfare, South) to speed up their efforts so that unskilled labors can getminimum wages. He also said that minimum wage is the right of every hard worker in our country. Also, Mr. Nadeem Akhtar visited 49 factories, 34 of which were giving decent wages to their workers. On the other hand, strict actions were taken against 15 factories. Similarly, a visit was made to 95 shops, and strict actions were taken against thosenot giving 32,000 per month to their staff members. In my opinion, ensuring the rights of labor in Pakistan requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses legal reforms, effective enforcement, skill development, formalization of the informal sector, workplace safety measures, CSR practices, and leveraging technology for employment generation. By addressing these aspects comprehensively and collaboratively involving government, employers, civil society, and international bodies, Pakistan can strive towards a more equitable and inclusive society where the rights and well-being of its labor force are sustained.