KARACHI: The eradication of forced labor in the brick kiln sector is vital for ensuring the sector’s sustainability and reducing poverty. This was highlighted by EFP Secretary General Syed Nazar Ali during a capacity-building workshop organized by the Employers Federation of Pakistan (EFP) with the support of the International Labor Organization (ILO) under the BRIDGE Project for members of the Brick Kilns Owners Association Pakistan (BKOAP) in Lahore. The goal of the session was to empower BKOAP members to better understand the concepts and challenges related to forced and bonded labor and to implement measures for its eradication in the brick kiln industry.
EFP Secretary General Syed Nazar Ali stated that forced labor is a violation of human rights and local laws. He emphasized that it is unacceptable in society, as it harms individuals and their families, while also hindering overall societal development and perpetuating poverty. He noted that this was the seventh session in the capacity-building series conducted by the EFP, aimed at raising awareness and strengthening the capacity of informal sector associations in Pakistan.
“The purpose of the session is to deepen BKOAP’s understanding of how to eliminate forced labor and ensure decent working conditions within the brick kiln sector, while also promoting the vital role of employer organizations and encouraging responsible business practices.”
Shoaib Niazi, Chairman of the Pakistan Brick Kiln Owners Association (BKOAP), expressed gratitude to EFP and ILO for organizing a capacity-building session for the BKOAP. He emphasized that participation in the session would enhance brick kiln owners’ understanding of forced labor, bonded labor, international standards, and relevant laws and legislation in Pakistan. This knowledge enables them to take effective measures against forced labor in the brick kilns sector.
“EFP and ILO to assist in advocating their concerns, particularly regarding minimum wage and social security, to the government for necessary amendments reflecting the ground realities of the brick kilns sector,” he urged.
Dr. Javaid Gill, the session consultant, expressed gratitude to the EFP and ILO for organizing the capacity-building session. He delivered a detailed presentation on forced and bonded labor, highlighting its connection to ILO Conventions No. 29 and 105. He detailed international instruments such as the UN Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, and local laws including the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1992 amended in 2018, applicable in Punjab.
Dr. Gill highlighted the roles of District Vigilance Committees in law enforcement and rehabilitation and emphasized the responsibilities of Provincial Vigilance Committees. He concluded by referencing ten points from the ILO’s Handbook for Employers to Combat Forced Labour and eliminating trafficking, stressing policies, training, and cooperation across sectors to combat forced labor effectively.
During the open discussion, participants discussed various issues in the brick kiln sector. They clarified that forced or bonded labor is not practiced in the brick kilns sector, although the challenges exist with social security registration. Minimum wage fixation under current laws was deemed inadequate, suggesting regional adjustments based on local conditions. Additionally, concerns were raised about the applicability of existing labor laws to accommodate family-based work dynamics in the brick kilns sector.