Pakistan Struggles to Meet International Labour Standards, Report Reveals

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A recent report launched by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the European Union has highlighted Pakistan’s progress and gaps in compliance with fundamental labour standards. The General Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) conditionalities require countries to ratify and implement 27 international conventions on human rights, labour rights, environmental protection, climate change, and good governance.

Progress and Gaps

The report charts Pakistan’s progress, identifies areas where the country falls short of meeting international standards, and provides practical recommendations for improvement. The launch was followed by a tripartite discussion between government, employers’, and workers’ organizations to discuss challenges and the way forward.

Challenges Ahead

Pakistan has made significant efforts to meet GSP+ obligations, but experts stress that all stakeholders must join forces to ensure successful implementation of required reforms. The ILO is committed to providing technical assistance to the Government in undertaking these reforms.

Importance of Inspection and Monitoring

While Pakistan has ratified core international conventions on human rights, labour standards, environmental protection, and good governance, inspection and monitoring remain crucial components to ensure compliance and continued momentum. The GSP+ scheme is a critical component of Pakistan’s journey towards becoming an ethical and responsive global partner.

Creating a Strong Enabling Environment

Experts believe that creating a strong enabling environment in Pakistan can broaden market access and unlock the country’s economic potential through diversification. The report serves as a tool to identify compliance gaps and offer recommendations for policy, administrative, and institutional reforms.

Commitment to Overcoming Challenges

Pakistan remains committed to overcoming challenges and meeting GSP+ conditionalities. The European Union has praised Pakistan’s progress but emphasized that continued momentum is essential to ensure compliance with international standards.

Way Forward

The report provides a roadmap for Pakistan to overcome the challenges it faces in meeting international labour standards. With the support of the ILO, the government, employers’, and workers’ organizations must work together to ensure successful implementation of required reforms.