Sindh Hosts 3rd Pakistan Labour Academy to Tackle Workers’ Rights

The event brought together human rights groups

labour unions, activists, civil society members

and youth representatives

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), in collaboration with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Pakistan, organized the 3rd Pakistan Labour Academy (PLA) at the National Institute of Labour, Administration, and Training (NILAT) in Karachi. The event gathered human rights groups, labour unions, activists, civil society members, and youth representatives from across Pakistan. They discussed key issues, including labour rights, legal advocacy, and policy reforms.

Government Pledges Support for Labour Reforms

Rajvir Singh Sodha, Special Assistant to the Sindh Chief Minister for Human Rights, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to better labour conditions. He called for a dedicated budget for NILAT’s labour training programs. Sodha stressed the need for collaboration between the government, civil society, and labour organizations to improve worker protections.

Key Labour Issues Highlighted

SHRC Chairperson Iqbal Ahmed Detho emphasized the need for a living wage, legal aid, and the establishment of labour courts. He also stressed the importance of improved occupational rights and maternity benefits. SHRC, under his leadership, continues to push for legal reforms and better cooperation among stakeholders.

SHRC Member Zulfiqar Ali Shah revealed alarming statistics. He stated that 95% of workers lack union representation, 23% endure forced labour, and millions of children work instead of attending school. Gender disparities also remain a major concern. Women earn lower wages and face exclusion from many labour protections. Shah called for stronger policies, awareness campaigns, and education programs to safeguard workers’ rights.

Empowering Labour Representatives

Abdullah Dayo, Program Advisor at FES Pakistan, highlighted the academy’s role in training labour representatives. The program equips them with essential skills to advocate for fair wages and better working conditions. Its specialized curriculum and experienced faculty play a key role in strengthening labour leadership.

NILAT Director General Muhammad Ali Shaikh and activist Zehra Khan discussed Pakistan’s complex labour laws. They emphasized the academy’s role in educating workers about their rights. Khan also stressed the need to involve more women and transgender individuals in the labour movement. She warned of growing challenges like privatization and a lack of formal employment contracts.

Call for Stronger Labour Protections

Felix Kolbitz, Country Director of FES Pakistan, praised the efforts of NILAT, SHRC, and FES in promoting labour rights. He emphasized that labour rights are fundamental human rights. Strengthening unions and improving workplace conditions, he said, would create a fairer society in Pakistan.

The Pakistan Labour Academy remains a crucial initiative. It continues to push for fair wages, safer workplaces, and stronger legal protections for workers in Sindh and across Pakistan.