The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Pakistan, in collaboration with PSI - Public Services International and Sindh Human Rights Commission, conducted a series of "Public Hearings: Impact of Privatization and Public Debt in Pakistan." The first hearing took place in Karachi last month, followed by the second hearing in Islamabad. Mr. Abdullah Dayo, program officer (FES - Pakistan) delivered the welcome remarks.
Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Detho, Chairperson of SHRC, attended the meeting through Zoom along with Members Judicial & staff of Sindh Human Rights Commission. He lauded FES for their dedicated efforts in conducting this crucial event. He emphasized the significance of advocating for the rights of the vulnerable segments of society, particularly labor rights.
Mr. Detho shared his insights about SHRC's endeavors, including taking up cases related to non-payment of minimum wages in both public and private institutions, aligning with SHRC's mandate. This encompasses addressing business and human rights concerns, including supply chain mechanisms.
He also highlighted the Provincial Steering Committee for Legal Aid and Assistance, a commendable initiative headed by the Secretary of Human Rights and co-chaired by Mr. Detho himself. This committee extends legal aid to those in need.
Notable speakers at the event included: Mr. Syed Naveed Qamar, Former Federal Minister for Commerce, Finance, Defense, Industries, Petroleum, Privatization and Investment, Mr. Zulfiqar Shah, Board Member (SHRC), Ms. Rida Tahir (Legal Consultant - SHRC), Dr. Aliya K Hashmi, Labour Economist and Former Dean of Economics Department at Quaid-e-Azam University, Mr. Shahbaz Jameel, Member, Privatization Commission, Government of Pakistan, and Mr. Karamat Ali, PILER.
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