Call for better rights for workers
Karachi, the hub of economic activity, owes its multicultural nature to the vast array of migrant families, who move to the port city in search for greener pastures. PHOTO: EXPRESS
The Islamabad Capital Territory Administration organised an event on Friday in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to celebrate Labour Day with a focus on improving and working for better workers’ rights.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner East, Usman Ashraf and Commissioner Social Security Hospital, Rabia Aurangzeb, and others.
In her address, Commissioner Social Security Hospital, Aurangzeb underscored the need for organisations to prioritise the health and well-being of their workers. She stated that “no nation can make progress unless its workers do have better rights.” She added that her department was committed to providing quality healthcare services to labourers.
Dr Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice-Chancellor of the Health Services Academy, reinforced his institution’s support for social security and the ongoing efforts to address workers’ health issues. He mentioned that their academy was fully prepared to make significant contributions to improving the welfare of workers and that Labour Day served as a crucial reminder of the challenges they face.
ILO Country Director Geir Thomas also attended the event, acknowledging the rapid growth of issues like climate change, economic instability, and unemployment. He stressed that workers were the backbone of the economy, and their welfare required the cooperation of all stakeholders. According to Thomas, efforts to ensure workers’ rights and well-being were central to building a better society.
On the occasion, Member National Assembly Anjum Aqeel Khan discussed the implementation of labour laws in Pakistan, stating that while they exist, enforcement remains inconsistent.
He highlighted that labour is the “capital of the country” and announced plans to give bonuses to hardworking workers. He also expressed his commitment to ensuring working women receive full rights and protection.
Addressing the audience, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner, Irfan Nawaz Memon, urged people to commit to treating their subordinates better and highlighted that many security guards were hired by companies but received low wages. Memon’s address called for a broader shift in attitudes toward workers, emphasising that real change starts from within the home.
The event also included discussions about health risks faced by workers in Pakistan. Overall, the Labour Day event in Islamabad served as a platform to honour the hard work of labourers while calling for improved treatment and recognition of their contributions.
Published in The Express Tribune May 4th, 2024.