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Islamabad: Federal Minister Chaudhary Salik Hussain has lauded the efforts of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (MOPHRD) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) during the National Tripartite Labour Conference, highlighting the government’s dedication to Occupational Safety and Health (OSH). This landmark event, the first of its kind in 15 years, marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s commitment to fostering safer work environments and promoting OSH as a fundamental component of sustainable development and decent work for all.
According to Press Information Department, the conference, held in Islamabad, saw the participation of representatives from federal and provincial governments, as well as workers’ and employers’ organizations. ILO Assistant Director-General, Mr. Hao Bin, attended as the Chief Guest. The conference agenda prominently featured discussions on occupational safety and health, with an emphasis on effective social dialogue. The event also included the launch of Pakistan’s National OSH profile, a tool designed to guide the government’s efforts in addressing OSH challenges more effectively.
The conference is taking place amid Pakistan’s preparations to ratify three significant ILO conventions: the Maritime Labour Convention, Protocol on Forced Labour, and the Labour Statistics Convention. This move underscores the government’s commitment to addressing critical work-related issues. Minister Hussain emphasized the importance of creating a culture of safety and well-being in workplaces, stating that the government prioritizes OSH as a way to protect workers’ lives and ensure industry sustainability.
Hao Bin praised Pakistan’s dedication to prioritizing occupational safety and health despite economic challenges, describing the national OSH profile and the tripartite conference as vital steps in strengthening social dialogue and implementing progressive policies. Worker Representative Zahoor Awan highlighted past incidents, such as the Rana Plaza collapse and Baldia factory fire, as reminders of the need for improved safety standards, particularly in high-risk sectors.
Majyd Aziz, representing the Employers’ Organisation, reiterated the Employers’ Federation of Pakistan’s commitment to promoting social dialogue and responsible trade unions. The ILO emphasized the importance of a preventive safety culture, noting that approximately 2.78 million work-related fatalities occur annually, with significant disparities between high and low-income countries in fatal occupational accident rates.
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