Representatives of the European Union and UNDP reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Pakistan’s efforts to advance responsible business conduct and labour rights. Mr. Jeroen Willems, Head of Cooperation, European Union Delegation to Pakistan, highlighted the importance of protecting labour rights and strengthening accountability mechanisms to promote inclusive and sustainable economic development. Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative, UNDP Pakistan, emphasized that Business and Human Rights provides a framework for ensuring that economic activity is grounded in dignity, inclusion, and accountability. Both speakers underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration among government institutions, employers, workers, and development partners to translate human rights commitments into effective workplace practices and sustainable development outcomes.

In his remarks, Mr. Muhammad Arshad, Director General, Ministry of Human Rights, reaffirmed the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to implementing the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. He underscored the importance of coordinated action among government institutions, employers, workers, and development partners to advance workplace dignity, protect labour rights, and strengthen accountability mechanisms. He noted that the Ministry of Human Rights remains committed to fostering an enabling environment for responsible business conduct and ensuring that economic development is aligned with human rights principles. During the plenary session, employers’ and workers’ organizations exchanged perspectives on workplace-level implementation challenges, labour rights protections, social dialogue mechanisms, and responsible business conduct practices in Pakistan.

The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to continue collaborative efforts for strengthening labour governance, promoting responsible business conduct, and advancing labour rights in accordance with Pakistan’s national priorities and international human rights obligations.