Workshop participants were divided into groups to discuss sector-specific issues within Pakistan’s public sector and to formulate demands and recommendations for future action.

Participants highlighted critical human resource shortages in public service sectors such as health, WAPDA (Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority), and irrigation, noting that unfilled vacancies have led to excessive workloads and rights violations during emergencies.

They emphasised the need to fill these positions to ensure quality emergency response. The struggle of Lady Health Workers (LHWs) was recognized, with demands for extending old-age pension benefits to all LHWs.

The right to freedom of association, guaranteed under ILO Conventions and Pakistan’s constitution, was reaffirmed, with participants condemning bans on union activities in WAPDA and Balochistan.

Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) during emergencies was seen as vital, with calls for regular training and the promotion of PPE use in line with ILO standards.

Finally, participants agreed to continue awareness campaigns on climate crises, national disasters, FPRW (Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work), and workers’ rights, while jointly advocating for improved protections.

The Way Forward

• PSI affiliates to launch awareness and education programs for second-tier leadership on workers’ rights and personal protection during climate-related emergencies.

• WERO to coordinate efforts to strengthen labor movements and trade unions in public service through alliances with civil society and government.

• Focus on training and capacity building to ensure compliance with provincial OSH laws and promote a safety culture.

• Develop strategies to combat gender-based violence, harassment, and discrimination, promoting gender balance and collaboration with management.

• Initiate research to assess health hazards faced by frontline public service workers in Pakistan during emergencies and to guide future protection measures.