I join the nation in recognising the historic struggle of workers whose sacrifices for fair wages, reasonable working hours and dignified conditions laid the foundation of the modern labour rights.
140 years ago on this day, the workers of Chicago laid their lives to defend their rights, when they demanded: “Eight hours for work, eight hours for rest, eight hours for what we will.”
The heart and soul of their demands was recognition of human dignity as they refused to be treated as machines they worked on. They called for an eight hour day, eight hour sleep and the remaining eight hours for their family, social, cultural, spiritual and political activities.
The framers of our 1973 constitution, specially Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, were cognisant of the importance of labour and the protection of the rights of workers.
At the very beginning of our constitution, article 3 has been titled as: Eliminiation of exploitation and it says;
“The State shall ensure the elimination of all forms of exploitation and the gradual fulfilment of the fundamental principles, from each according to his ability to each according to his work.”
I extend my deep appreciation to the labourers of Pakistan; those who build our cities, cultivate our lands and sustain our industries with unwavering determination. Their work is not merely a means of livelihood; it is the force that drives national development. The true strength of Pakistan lies in the hands of its labourers.
Pakistan remains committed to upholding international labour standards and promoting fundamental rights at work, including fair wages, social protection, the elimination of forced and child labour and non-discrimination. We also reaffirm our dedication to the ILO’s conventions and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to decent work, inclusive growth and social protection.
Our workforce, at home and overseas, remains a pillar of national strength. Millions of Pakistanis working abroad not only contribute to the global economy but also serve as ambassadors of our values, resilience and professionalism. Their remittances sustain families, uplift communities and reinforce economic stability.
Across all sectors, our workforce continues to demonstrate perseverance in the face of challenges. They remain the backbone of the nation. Ensuring safe working conditions, fair wages and equal opportunities is both a national priority and a moral responsibility. We will continue to strengthen protections and create opportunities so that every worker can live with dignity and security.
Our vision is a Pakistan where every worker is skilled, protected and fairly rewarded. Investing in human capital is the most productive investment a nation can make. We are committed to expanding technical and vocational education, enabling women’s workforce participation and creating pathways for our youth to access decent work, both at home and in global labour markets.
I call upon all workers, employers, trade unions, provincial governments and international partners to join hands in this shared endeavour. Let us build an economy where labour is honoured, not exploited; where wages are fair, not suppressive; and where every worker can look forward with confidence, not uncertainty. A nation that protects its workers, protects its future. Labour Empowerment is the pathway to lasting national strength.
I salute the workers of Pakistan. You are not the margin of our economy; you are its foundation.
