The Sindh Human Rights Commission, in collaboration with Obun2, convened a critical consultation session in Karachi, bringing together key stakeholders to address bonded labour and child domestic labour issues in Sindh. The session included representatives from the Law Department, Labour and Resources Department, various government agencies, and civil society organizations. Their insights are pivotal for developing a comprehensive advocacy strategy to enhance legislative and policy frameworks.
Mr. Iqbal Ahmed Detho, Chairperson of the Sindh Human Rights Commission, opened the session with an overview of the Sindh Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 2015. He emphasized the need for analyzing the Act and its related frameworks to identify gaps and deficiencies. Mr. Detho also highlighted the importance of creating a benchbook on labour laws for the judiciary to ensure effective implementation and enforcement of labour rights across Sindh.
Mr. Shahid Shafiq, District & Session Judge and Senior Faculty Member of the Sindh Judicial Academy, offered a critical perspective on the challenges of implementing the Act. He noted the difficulty in obtaining reliable data from government departments, which impedes research and policy development. Accurate data is crucial for addressing bonded labour and refining legal mechanisms.
Mr. Shahid Abdul Salam Thahim, Minister for Labour & Human Resources Department, Government of Sindh, joined the session as Guest of Honor. He addressed key issues in labour laws, acknowledged existing legal loopholes, and committed to addressing them. Mr. Thahim highlighted the need for effective implementation of the Sindh Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 2015, and the Children (Prohibition and Regulation) Act. He also announced plans to fully operationalize the National Institute of Labour Administration Training (NILAT) and develop mechanisms for better protection of home-based workers and bonded labourers.
Mr. Nazar Ali, Secretary General of the Employer Federation of Pakistan, stressed the importance of preventive measures against bonded labour, forced labour, and child labour. He highlighted the need to address root causes and develop a comprehensive social protection system for workers.
Mr. Nasir Mansoor, General Secretary of the National Trade Federation, called for proactive measures from both the government and civil society to protect labour rights. He pointed out issues in the growing Gig economy and the undervaluation of skilled workers in the textile and manufacturing industries.
Mr. Qindeel Shujaat, Executive Director of Obun2, presented on the issue of out-of-school children and child domestic labour. He emphasized the role of international human rights frameworks and recent legislative efforts, such as the Sindh Domestic Workers Bill 2024, in protecting children from exploitation. Mr. Shujaat argued that addressing child labour requires ensuring access to quality education for all children.
