International Conference on Labour Rights to be Held in Islamabad
ISLAMABAD: The National Industrial Relations Commission (NIRC), in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), will host an international conference dedicated to International Labour Day 2025 on May 1st in Islamabad.
The conference, taking place at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), carries the theme “Harmony with Change.” It seeks to foster dialogue and consultation regarding workers’ rights, promote industrial harmony, and discuss legislation that aligns with global standards within Pakistan.
This event marks the first significant national conference organized by the NIRC since 1969. The gathering will include federal ministers, esteemed judges from the Supreme Court and High Courts, leaders of labour unions, industrialists, legal authorities, and senior representatives from the ILO.
NIRC Chairman Justice (retd) Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui will inaugurate and preside over the conference. Following his opening remarks, Barrister Zafarullah Khan, a renowned legal expert, will deliver a speech on “Rights and Responsibilities of Employers and Workers in Islam.”
Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail of the Supreme Court will present a special address focusing on “The Role of Pakistani Judiciary in Protecting Labour Rights.”
Technical Sessions
The conference will also feature several technical sessions. The initial session, entitled “Industrial Harmony and Social Dialogue,” will be presided over by former Supreme Court Judge Justice (R) Khalilur Rehman Ramday.
The panel will consist of notable figures such as Muhammad Asim Kichhi, Managing Director of Associated Press of Pakistan (APP); Tahir Yaqub Bhatti, President of Zarai Taraqiati Bank; Shoaib Adil, Additional Secretary of Pakistan Railways; Faisal Nisar Chaudhry, Managing Director of Utility Stores Corporation; Mir Ibrahim Rahman, CEO of Geo TV; and Siraj Hussain, Director at Unilever Pakistan.
Leaders from various labour unions will also participate in the panel discussion, which will be moderated by Salman Mansoor Siddiqui, General Secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association.
The second session, chaired by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain, will address “Grievance Redressal Under the Industrial Relations Act 2012” and “Pakistan’s Commitment to ILO Conventions.”
Advocate Imran Shafiq will serve as a mediator, while labour expert Iftikhar Ahmed and Lahore High Court’s Justice Jawad Hassan will share their insights.
During the concluding session, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar will give a speech on “Efforts to Align Existing Laws in Pakistan with International Labour Standards.”
ILO Pakistan Country Director Geir Tonstol will present a keynote address on “The Future of Work.” The conference will conclude with the awarding of honorary shields to distinguished guests, followed by a luncheon for all participants.
Justice (retd) Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui characterized the event as a crucial step forward for labour rights and industrial cooperation, emphasizing that “WE 2025 is not merely a slogan; it is a vision based on dialogue, respect, and partnership for a brighter future.”
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