By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: HomeNet Pakistan (HNP), in collaboration with Asia Floor Wage Alliance (AFWA), hosted a Trade Union Consultation at the HNP Office in Lahore to develop a joint advocacy strategy for an immediate increase in Punjab’s minimum wage and the notification of minimum wages for home-based workers under the Punjab Home-Based Workers Act, 2023.
The consultation brought together prominent labour leaders, advocates along with representatives of trade unions from across Lahore, including Ms. Ume Laila Azhar, Mr. Hanif Ramay, Mr. Zafar Malik, Mr. Niaz Khan, Mr. Sajid Ali, Ms. Attia Hanif and Ms. Fiaza Khan,
Participants expressed concern over the delay in announcing a revised minimum wage despite rising inflation and emphasized the urgent need to notify minimum wages for home-based workers in line with the 2023 legislation. They also reviewed key provisions of the proposed Labour Code 2026 and agreed to present a unified position to safeguard workers’ rights and strengthen collective bargaining.
The meeting concluded with consensus on a coordinated advocacy plan involving engagement with the Punjab Minimum Wage Board, government departments, media, civil society, and labour organizations to advance fair wages and decent work.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Ume Laila Azhar, Executive Director, HomeNet Pakistan, stated:
“A fair and timely revision of the minimum wage, along with the implementation of minimum wages for home-based workers, is essential to protect vulnerable workers from rising living costs and to uphold their legal rights. HomeNet Pakistan will continue to work alongside trade unions and partners to promote decent work, social justice, and inclusive labour policies.”
The consultation reaffirmed the collective commitment of trade unions and labour rights organizations to work together for equitable wages, stronger labour protections, and meaningful social dialogue in Punjab.
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