ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Friday marked International Labor Day with renewed pledges to protect workers’ rights, improve working conditions, and expand economic opportunities, as leadership paid tribute to the nation’s labor force.
President stresses dignity of labor, constitutional protections
In a message issued by the Press Information Department (PID), President Asif Ali Zardari acknowledged the struggle of workers, saying their sacrifices "laid the foundation of modern labor rights" through demands for fair wages, reasonable working hours, and dignified conditions.
Recalling the origins of Labor Day, he referenced the 19th-century Chicago movement, where workers "refused to be treated as machines," and demanded eight-hour work shifts.
The statement said Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees protection against exploitation, noting that Article 3 commits the state to "eliminating all forms of exploitation" and ensuring equitable distribution based on ability and work.
Praising workers across sectors for driving national development, the president said "the true strength of Pakistan lies in the hands of its laborers," adding that "labor empowerment is the pathway to lasting national strength."
"Pakistan remains committed to upholding international labor standards and promoting fundamental rights at work, including fair wages, social protection, the elimination of forced and child labor, and non-discrimination", Zardari said.
He also highlighted the role of overseas Pakistanis, saying their remittances support families, strengthen communities, and contribute to economic stability.
We are committed to expanding technical and vocational education, enabling women’s participation in the workforce, and creating pathways for our youth to access decent work, both at home and in global labor markets, the statement said.
PM highlights workforce resilience, skills development initiatives
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a post on X, called workers the "backbone of society," recognizing the contributions of laborers, farmers, artisans, and professionals across industries.
"Their sacrifices, hard work and perseverance keep the wheels of life moving, from fields to factories, construction sites to workshops, at local level and right to the global stage," he said.
Pakistani workers demonstrate "resilience, courage, and dignity" in the face of challenges, the PM said, adding that the labor force reflects the country’s "industriousness and professional excellence."
On policy measures, he reiterated the government's efforts to enhance workforce skills through the National Skills Development Policy, with a special emphasis on internationally recognized training, language proficiency, and certification to improve global employment prospects and ensure that the workforce secures dignified opportunities worldwide.
Institutions such as the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) and the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF) continue to provide pensions, housing, education and other services to workers and their families, the statement said.
The PM called on all stakeholders, including the business community and industrialists, to uphold workers’ rights and ensure safe and fair working conditions.
Both leaders emphasized the need for collective action to build an economy where labor is respected and adequately compensated.
