PSA stresses concerted efforts for women empowerment

Islamabad:The second consultation of the Provincial Stakeholders Alliance (PSA) took place, where stakeholders stressed the importance of coordinated and concerted efforts to empower women agricultural workers in Punjab. This empowerment is seen as a crucial step toward achieving both social and economic equality. The PSA is a platform that includes government agencies, non-government organizations, civil society groups, bar councils, and media representatives, working collectively for policy advocacy and the rights of women agricultural workers.

Zia-ur-Rehman, chief executive of AwazCDS-Pakistan, introduced the purpose of the PSA, emphasising, "This platform aims to be a catalyst for positive change, ensuring the rights and empowerment of women agricultural workers are prioritized and protected by ensuring legislation for the Punjab Agricultural Workers, especially for women."

During the event, Rao Zahid Mehmood, deputy secretary, Labour & Human Resource Department, Punjab gave a detailed briefing on the newly introduced Labour Code Punjab. He explained that the code comprehensively covers nearly every sector of labour, including agricultural workers, and its implementation will apply to all sectors equally. He stressed that the reforms are intended to streamline labour laws and simplify the regulatory framework for labour rights and protections in Punjab.

Rehana Afzal from the Punjab Social Protection Authority (PSPA) elaborated on the available social protection schemes for women agricultural workers. She also highlighted the forthcoming Punjab Social and Economic Registry (PSER) 2024, which aims to better document and facilitate access to government social services for marginalized communities. These schemes are intended to improve the living standards of women workers, providing financial support and healthcare benefits.

Influential representatives from the Social Welfare Department, Nadeem Ashraf, Member Punjab of the National Commission for Human Rights, underscored the importance of a comprehensive, non-discriminatory and gender-inclusive labour law. He urged all relevant stakeholders to thoroughly review the Labour Code Punjab and identify any gaps that might hinder its effectiveness.