Unified Efforts for Women Agricultural Workers’ Empowerment in Punjab
- Stakeholders unite to support women agricultural workers in Punjab.
- PSA platform focuses on advocacy, research, and policy development.
- Emphasis on improving working conditions and legislative reforms.
Stakeholders in Punjab have emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to empower women agricultural workers, aiming for social and economic equality. The formation of the Provincial Stakeholders Alliance (PSA) marks a significant step toward addressing these issues, as highlighted in a recent event.
During the event, speakers discussed findings from the research report “The Hands that Feed Us: Struggles of Women Agricultural Workers in Pakistan,” produced by Awaz Foundation Pakistan, JAAG Welfare, and the Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA). The PSA brings together representatives from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, civil society, bar councils, and media to create a united front for change.
Nadeem Ashraf, a member of the National Commission for Human Rights in Punjab, emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts to implement measures for women’s empowerment and well-being. He highlighted that the PSA aims to foster empowerment by bringing together committed stakeholders.
Zia-ur-Rehman, Chief Executive of AwazCDS-Pakistan, introduced the PSA’s purpose, underscoring the platform’s role in advocating for the rights and protection of women agricultural workers. He stressed the need for specific legislation to support these workers in Punjab.
The Deputy Secretary of the Labour & Human Resource Department Punjab highlighted the lack of policies for agricultural workers and the ongoing labor law reforms aimed at simplifying and consolidating existing laws into comprehensive Labour Codes.
PMA Kanwal Parvaiz pointed out the absence of regulations for working conditions and hours for agricultural workers. She mentioned ongoing efforts to introduce new laws to address these gaps, particularly for women.
Civil society leaders expressed the need for a multifaceted approach combining advocacy, research, capacity building, and public awareness to advocate for legislation protecting women agricultural workers in Punjab. These initiatives are expected to significantly improve their working conditions, wages, and overall quality of life.
Zia-ur-Rehman further elaborated on PSA’s commitment to enhancing advocacy efforts for legislative support and increased budget allocation for women agricultural workers. He outlined practical steps to ensure that the discussions translate into meaningful actions, reinforcing the alliance’s dedication to positive change
