BY: Syed Fawad Ali Shah
ISLAMABAD – The International Labour Organization (ILO) has been a partner in Pakistan’s pursuit of improving the labour market since the country joined the organization in 1947. The ILO’s primary focus in Pakistan revolves around creating decent and productive employment opportunities, enhancing social protection, and fostering inclusive and fair workplaces for all. The ILO works with various government bodies and organizations in Pakistan to tackle labour challenges that range from ensuring fair working conditions to promoting climate resilience and social protection. Its collaborations include government bodies such as the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Commerce, and Ministry of Climate Change, as well as worker and employer organizations like the Employers’ Federation of Pakistan and Pakistan United Workers’ Federation. With a labour force of 83 million, Pakistan faces several challenges. The informal economy accounts for a significant portion of the employment, while women’s participation in the workforce remains relatively low at 21.4%. Unemployment and the percentage of youth not in education, employment, or training (NEET) are also concerning, highlighting the need for robust employment policies. The ILO’s collaboration with Pakistan is wide-ranging. Some of the significant achievements include the ratification of labour conventions. On March 14, 2025, after an 18-year gap, Pakistan ratified key labour conventions, including the Maritime Labour Convention and the Forced Labour Protocol. In terms of social protection and inclusivity, Pakistan has become a pathfinder country in the UN’s Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions. Social protection systems have been improved in regions like Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The ILO supports worker organizations and promotes gender equality, addressing wage gaps, and improving leadership roles for women in trade unions. Additionally, the ILO played a crucial role in response to the 2022 floods in Pakistan, providing technical support to develop the World of Work Crisis Response Strategy. The ILO and Pakistan continue to work together to formalize the informal economy, improve working conditions, and foster an inclusive workforce. The collaboration also extends to addressing climate change and ensuring that the transitions to greener, more sustainable jobs are fair and just for all. The ILO’s work in Pakistan is an ongoing journey toward improving the standards of work for millions of Pakistanis. Through continued collaboration and adherence to international labour standards, the country is gradually moving towards a more prosperous and equitable workforce.
