ISLAMABAD: Repre­sen­tatives of government, employers and workers’ organisations at a Tripartite Labour Confe­rence that concluded in Isla­mabad on Tuesday, unanimously endorsed a resolution aimed at addressing Occupa­tional Safety and Health (OSH) gaps and strengthening its standards for safer, healthier workplaces across the country.

A joint declaration issued at the end of the conference underscores Pakistan’s commitment to gender-sensitive OSH policies to better protect women workers.

The delegates stressed the need for continuous, meaningful social dialogue and proactive measures to promote safe, inclusive, and productive workplaces across the country.

The two-day conference, held after 15 years, came up with a pledge to improve governance structures to strengthen OSH, especially in high-risk sectors.

The closing event was attended by Minister of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain along with representatives from ILO, employers’ and workers’ organisations and development partner organisations.

Speaking at the closing session, Mr Hussain stated that the conference is only the beginning and sets the foundation for ongoing collaboration and dialogue.

“From this day forward, our focus will be on mobilising resources and implementing tangible projects, particularly in high-risk and priority sectors. We will lead by example, creating sustainable practices that can be replicated across industries,” he said.

ILO Country Director Geir Tonstol said on the occasion that it is imperative for the government to utilise outcomes of the conference to promote Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) through policies, partnerships, advocacy, training, and capacity building.

A tripartite approach, in alignment with the government’s initiatives, will bolster social dialogue and strengthen the fabric of the country.

Published in Dawn, November 13th, 2024