Leaders Advocate for Labor Rights on International Labour Day

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have jointly emphasized the importance of empowering laborers and ensuring their welfare. Their message coincides with International Labour Day, observed today (Thursday), as they reaffirmed their dedication to safeguarding the rights of the workforce.

President Zardari highlighted the necessity of skill development for the nation’s youth and workforce in a rapidly evolving global landscape. He lauded the significant contributions, struggles, and sacrifices of working individuals who have been instrumental in Pakistan’s progress.

He emphasized the urgency of providing workers and young people with modern skills to navigate the ever-changing demands of the job market. The President called upon governmental bodies, private sector entities, academic institutions, and civil society organizations to collaborate in fostering a supportive environment for skill enhancement among laborers.

“This day serves as a reminder of the historical battles fought by workers worldwide for their fundamental rights and dignity. We reiterate our commitment to their empowerment, fair compensation, secure working environments, and comprehensive social security,” he stated.

President Zardari acknowledged the pivotal role of laborers and the working class as the driving force behind the nation’s economy and overall development. He recognized their essential contribution to economic advancement.

“Our workforce is the backbone of our manufacturing industries, agricultural sector, small and medium-sized businesses, government services, and various public sectors. We take pride in our workers and recognize that our national development is a direct result of their dedication and hard work,” he added.

The President also appealed to employers, trade unions, civil society organizations, and the public sector to unite in establishing a fair labor ecosystem and championing the welfare and advancement of workers.

“Let us pay tribute to our workers through meaningful policies, inclusive growth, and a culture that values labor in all its manifestations,” he urged.

Similarly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to fostering safe, healthy, and dignified working conditions for all workers. He described them as the essential force driving the nation’s progress and resilience.

He affirmed that the safeguarding of fundamental labor rights is enshrined in the Constitution, aligning with the core conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), of which Pakistan is a committed signatory.

In line with these principles, PM Shehbaz noted that Pakistan has implemented significant legislative and administrative reforms to further reinforce protections for workers.

“We have formally adopted key international labour agreements, including the 2014 Protocol to the Forced Labour Convention and the Maritime Labour Convention, while also making new commitments to occupational safety and health standards.”

He noted that every worker in Pakistan now benefits from a National Occupational Safety and Health Profile, ensuring safer and healthier workplaces across the nation.

“Our government has undertaken significant initiatives to broaden the scope and impact of institutions like the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) and the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF), to ensure the benefits of our labor protections are distributed more equitably across all segments of the workforce,” the Prime Minister elaborated.

He said that through digitization and labor law reforms, the government is working towards a future where every worker can expect dignity, safety, and ample opportunities.

PM Shehbaz also highlighted that skill development programs, particularly those managed by the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and the Technical Education and Vocational Training Authorities (TEVTAs), are being expanded. These initiatives are especially focused on providing youth and women with vocational training that meets current market needs.

“On this important occasion, I encourage all stakeholders, including employers, workers, civil society, and government, to collaborate in nurturing a culture that values labor, respects workers’ rights, and generates decent work opportunities for everyone,” he concluded.