Business and labour leaders urged to strengthen cooperation on workers’ rights, industrial growth and responsible business practices during a dialogue in Islamabad.
Responsible Business practices took centre stage in Islamabad as the Employers Federation of Pakistan (EFP) called for a new social contract between workers and employers.
Speaking at a dialogue on Business and Human Rights, EFP President Majyd Aziz urged labour leaders and employers to work together through the Workers Employers Bilateral Council of Pakistan (WEBCOP).
Aziz said the business landscape has changed rapidly over recent decades. He cited globalization, climate challenges, privatization and technological innovation as key factors behind this transformation.
He noted that consumers, international brands and trade blocs now pay closer attention to workers’ rights, environmental protection and social justice.
Aziz said workers and employers should focus on shared interests rather than disagreements. He stressed the need for trust, cooperation and constructive dialogue between both sides.
He also urged labour representatives to support efforts that promote industrial growth. He called for reforms to ease heavy taxation on businesses and stronger action against extortion targeting the private sector.
Aziz said responsible business conduct must begin with leadership. He encouraged companies to adopt clear human rights policies and strengthen accountability across their operations.
He advised businesses to assess human rights risks and integrate safeguards into recruitment, procurement and supply-chain practices.
According to Aziz, companies that respect human rights build stronger relationships with employees, customers, investors and local communities.
He also highlighted the importance of complying with international labour standards. These include International Labour Organization requirements, EU GSP Plus obligations and conditions set by global brands.
Aziz said compliance helps protect corporate reputations, reduce workplace disputes and improve productivity. He added that labour standards are not only a legal requirement but also a business necessity.
The dialogue opened with remarks from Chaudhry Salik Hussain.
Senior government officials, business leaders, labour representatives and civil society members attended the event.
Participants included Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry, Jeroen Willems, Dr Samuel Rizk, Rabia Razzaque, Saad Nasim and FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh.
