Pakistani ship breaking workers continue to face workplace hazards

The terrible working conditions for workers in the three major ship breaking countries of the world, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, have been documented before. A recent document by a newly formed Pakistani organisation once again highlighted these hazards. Via a comprehensive survey of workers, the Sustainable Development Policy Institute found that workers rights were not protected, notably health and safety rights, freedom of association, workers’ welfare and benefits, and contractual rights. Only the formation of independent trade unions will guarantee safe working conditions and a living wage for these workers in the future.

The terrible working conditions for workers in the three major ship breaking countries of the world, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, have been documented before. A recent document by a newly formed Pakistani organisation once again highlighted these hazards. Via a comprehensive survey of workers, the Sustainable Development Policy Institute found that workers rights were not protected, notably health and safety rights, freedom of association, workers’ welfare and benefits, and contractual rights. Only the formation of independent trade unions will guarantee safe working conditions and a living wage for these workers in the future.