HRCP Criticizes Proposed Punjab Labour Code 2025 for Endangering Workers' Rights

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan warns that the proposed Punjab Labour Code 2025 could harm workers' rights. The PLC 2025, criticized for insufficient consultation with workers and inconsistency with ILO conventions, risks worsening conditions by diluting protections, undermining trade unions, and inadequately addressing child and forced labour issues.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised significant concerns about the proposed Punjab Labour Code 2025, warning that it could exacerbate the erosion of workers' rights in the region. The HRCP's report, a part of its Legislation Watch Cell 2025 series, highlights inconsistencies with International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions and constitutional protections related to freedom of association, equality, and protection from forced and child labour.

Criticism has mounted over the PLC's drafting process introduced as Bill No. 85 of 2025 before the Punjab Assembly due to what HRCP describes as "insufficient consultation" from workers and trade unions. Activists from the Punjab Labour Alliance assert the code was heavily influenced by ILO consultants without genuine worker involvement, violating Pakistan's commitments under the Tripartite Consultation Convention.

The report emphasizes a troubling "top-down approach" that contravenes the tripartite principles foundational to international labour standards. While the PLC seeks to consolidate over two dozen provincial labour laws, it allegedly dilutes worker protections. Notably, the code grants employers significant leeway in defining "unfair labour practices" and permits new hiring during strikes, potentially weakening the strength of collective bargaining and the right to protest.

Furthermore, the PLC's broad definition of "worker," including contractors and supervisors, could diminish trade union power by blurring lines between labour and management. Child labour, forced labour, and discrimination provisions are deemed insufficient, with existing loopholes that could perpetuate exploitation. Clauses on gender and disability equality also face criticism for lacking enforcement, impacting Pakistan's global standing on labour and gender parity. HRCP recommends a comprehensive redrafting of the PLC, calling for genuine input from trade unions and civil society.

The commission urges the Punjab government to realign the law with ILO conventions, reduce employer immunity, and restore the rights of workers to organize, negotiate, and protest freely. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)