New unit will support coordination, compliance and enforcement of fundamental labour rights, with a focus on vulnerable sectors and improved labour governance across the province.

QUETTA, (TW News) – The Government of Balochistan, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has established a Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW) Unit, within the Department of Labour, to strengthen coordination, compliance and enforcement of labour rights across the province. This marks the first dedicated unit of its kind in Pakistan, with a focus on improving oversight and protecting workers in vulnerable sectors. The new unit was inaugurated by Geir T. Tonstol, Director of the ILO Country Office for Pakistan, in the presence of senior officials from the Government of Balochistan.

Many workers in Balochistan continue to face challenges linked to informality, limited access to social protection and unsafe working conditions, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and segments of the cotton supply chain. Strengthening respect for fundamental labour rights is essential to improving working conditions, supporting fair labour markets and advancing inclusive economic growth.

The FPRW unit will support awareness-raising, institutional coordination and application of core labour standards. It will also serve as a platform to enhance engagement among government institutions, employers’ and workers’ organizations, reinforcing social dialogue and supporting compliance.

Geir T. Tonstol emphasized “Fundamental principles and rights at work are central to fair labour markets and sustainable development. Strengthening respect for these principles helps improve working conditions, supports institutions and contributes to more inclusive growth. The establishment of this unit is a timely step to enhance coordination, build capacity and expand awareness, particularly in sectors where workers are most vulnerable.”

The unit will also support the application of core labour standards, including freedom of association and collective bargaining, elimination of forced and child labour, non-discrimination, and promotion of safe and healthy working environments. The establishment of the unit comes at a critical time, as efforts continue to address informality and gaps in working conditions in key sectors, including parts of the cotton supply chain.

Bashir Ahmed Shahwani, Director General, Department of Labour stated, “The establishment of the FPRW unit marks an important step in strengthening labour governance in Balochistan. Through this initiative, the Labour and Manpower Department is committed to promoting fundamental rights at work, strengthening coordination and enhancing protection for workers across the province.”

The inauguration of the new unit was followed by discussions with senior officials from the Government of Balochistan and representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations to review progress under the Decent Work Country Programme (2024–2027) and identify priority areas for continued collaboration.

Discussions focused on strengthening labour law implementation, advancing social dialogue mechanisms, and reinforcing efforts to promote freedom of association and collective bargaining. Participants also emphasized the importance of building institutional capacity and improving monitoring and enforcement systems.