Sindh HBWs Demand Justice: Urgent Call to Ratify ILO Conventions for Social Security and Safety
Imran
Karachi, Pakistan – Invisible no more! Thousands of women Home-Based Workers (HBWs) gathered in Karachi today for a powerful convention, marking International Home-Based Workers Day and 25 years of their movement in Pakistan. Organized by HomeNet Pakistan, the event sounded a clear alarm to the government: urgently ratify ILO Conventions 177 and 190 and fully implement the Sindh HBWs Act 2018 to secure their rights, wages, and safety.
The convention, held under the slogan “Home-Based Workers Demand Immediate Ratification of ILO C-177 and C-190,” brought together government officials, NGOs, labor experts, and the HBWs themselves. Participants highlighted the immense, yet often unacknowledged, contribution of Pakistan’s nearly 20 million home-based workers—predominantly women—who are crucial to the country's export-driven sectors like garments, textiles, and handicrafts.
Stories of Struggle, Demands for Justice
HBWs shared poignant stories of their resilience, battling issues like low piece-rate wages, unsafe working conditions, and a pervasive lack of recognition despite their pivotal role in the supply chain.
Ms. Ume Laila, Executive Director of HomeNet Pakistan, stressed the need for transparency and accountability from international brands sourcing from these workers, urging the government to enforce global human rights and labor standards.
Mr. Ahmad Nawaz from SESSI confirmed that social security benefits, including healthcare, pensions, and maternity support, are being extended under the 2018 Act but called for faster digital registration and wider outreach, especially to rural communities.
Dr. Muneeb from Aga Khan University and Hospital highlighted severe occupational health risks from chemical exposure and long hours, advocating for mandatory health screenings and improved work environments.
Key Demands and New Campaign
HomeNet Pakistan intensified the pressure on the government to ratify ILO Convention 177 (Home Work) to ensure fair treatment and ILO Convention 190 (Violence and Harassment) to guarantee a safe and equal workplace.
The organization also launched its "My Home is My Workplace" campaign, which connects labor rights with climate justice, demanding recognition for HBWs as contributors to the green economy and immediate support for those impacted by climate disasters like floods.
The convention concluded with a resolute Charter of Demands, calling for:
Immediate implementation and budget allocation for the Sindh Home-Based Worker Act 2018.
Ratification of ILO C-177 and C-190.
Registration of HBWs and issuance of labor cards for formal recognition.
Fair wages and trade union rights.
Comprehensive social protection.
Safe and healthy working conditions and climate resilience measures.
The event concluded on a note of powerful solidarity, cementing the shared commitment to protect, empower, and uplift home-based workers across Pakistan.
