The world generally talks about labour / work force rights. On and off, this topic remains a burning question throughout the year on newspapers, generals, talk shows and other sources of social media. Labour across Pakistan enjoys major civil rights comparatively with Pakistan. Labour minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor standards are defined under the laws of progressive countries. They are highly paid and contributors to the counties’ economy. Not only the labours are facilitated in economic terms, but also compensated in all aspects including legal services, vocational rehabilitation, health insurance, disability benefits etc.

Contrary to the above, pitiful behavior is being observed in Pakistan. Practically, there is no concept of labour protection despite of multiple labour policies. In Pakistan, we have child labour, old aged labour, less paid and under paid labours with no other benefits.  Although, it is fruitful to know that Pakistan’s first labor policy was devised in 1972, in which May 1 was declared an official holiday. This policy also formulated the creation of the Social Security Network, Old Age Benefit Schemes and Workers Welfare Fund. Pakistan’s constitution also contains various provisions and articles about labor rights.

It is pertinent to note that Pakistan became a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) right after its independence in 1947. The ILO is a United Nations (UN) specialized agency that promotes social justice and universally acknowledged human and social rights. Pakistan has ratified 36 ILO conventions of which eight are core conventions.

A few people across the country mark this day by carrying out rallies, marches, processions, labor/worker union sessions. Some labour unions organize union sessions, seminars, rallies, parades street demonstrations and emphasizing the history of Labor Day and its importance

Observantly, the purpose to celebrate this day is to appreciate the labor / working class and to encourage them to be conscious of their rights. It is celebrated to acknowledge the immense hard work put in by the working class, to educate them about their rights, and to protect them from being exploited. However, Pakistani workforce is totally deprived of the rejoice and benefits of labor rights. Infect, labors on the streets will be observed on the day of their holiday. They carry out their responsibilities still on the same date due to high inflation and increasing prices.

Pakistan is a developing country but the current scenario has improved compared to previous times. However, workers still do not enjoy as many rights as enjoyed by workers in more developed/industrialized countries. Many organized street demonstrations take place on Labor Day, where workers and labor unions protest against labor repression and demand for more rights, better wages and benefits. 

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 01 2023

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