In a historic step towards promoting safer and healthier workplaces for all, delegates from government, employers’ and workers’ organizations stand united at the National Tripartite Labour Conference to reaffirm their commitment to prioritizing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) as a fundamental element of inclusive, sustainable development and decent work for all.
Convened by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (MOPHRD) with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO), Pakistan’s first tripartite national labour conference in 15 years was opened in Islamabad today. Representatives from the federal and provincial governments, workers’ and employers’ organizations attended the event. Mr. Hao Bin, ILO Assistant Director-General joined as Chief guest.
One issue that will feature strongly on the agenda during the two-day conference is occupational safety and health and effective social dialogue. The conference will serve as a great opportunity to build momentum around a critical world of work issues and encourage ratification of the relevant ILO Conventions on OSH, Convention No. 155 and Convention No. 187.
The opening event also saw the launch of Pakistan’s National OSH profile which will serve as a comprehensive tool, providing critical insights to guide the Government of Pakistan’s efforts in addressing OSH challenges more effectively. The conference will feature panel discussions on OSH in female dominant and high-risk sectors, culture of safety and investment in prevention and tripartite dialogue for industrial harmony.
The conference comes at a time when Pakistan is set to ratify three ILO conventions: the Maritime Labour Convention, Protocol on Forced Labour and the Labour Statistics Convention. This not only demonstrates the Government of Pakistan’s commitment, but also the political willingness to address critical world of work issues.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development warmly welcomed the participants and expressed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting a safe and secure work environment where every worker feels valued and protected.
He further stated, “The government places immense importance on OSH and worker welfare because we understand that a healthy workforce is a more productive workforce. By prioritizing OSH, we are not only protecting the lives and well-being of our workers but also ensuring the sustainability and longevity of our industries.”
Hao Bin, ILO Assistant Director-General, said “Pakistan has demonstrated remarkable dedication to prioritizing occupational safety and health, despite the economic strains the country has faced. The launch of the national OSH profile today as well as the tripartite labour conference signify a crucial step towards reinforcing our collective commitment to social dialogue, advance progressive policies, and enhance our efforts to improve the ratification of up-to-date ILO conventions.”
Zahoor Awan, Worker Representative and Member of the ILO’s Governing Body, said “There have been numerous incidents impacting occupational safety and health of workers across the region, including the Rana Plaza collapse in Bangladesh and the Baldia factory fire in Karachi. Such tragedies underscore the importance of improving safety standards in high-risks sectors including mining, care economy and agriculture. There is a unanimous consensus by the Government and social partners to ratify OSH conventions. This would demonstrate Pakistan’s dedication to worker welfare and reinforce its role as a responsible global player.”
Majyd Aziz, Representing Employers’ Organisation said, “Employers’ Federation of Pakistan (EFP) is a signatory of the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) and has been at the forefront of ensuring compliance, best practices, and workers’ rights. EFP is fully committed to promoting a robust ecosystem of social dialogue, advocating for stronger and more responsible trade unions, and leading formidable employer organizations. These elements are essential to advancing social justice in Pakistan.”
