September 18, 2025 | Haripur, Pakistan
In a significant step toward safeguarding workers’ rights and promoting fair labor practices, the Welfare Association Jared (WAJ) convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting on September 17, 2025, at the Olive Restaurant in Haripur. The gathering brought together government officials, legal experts, civil society representatives, and labor advocates to engage in an in-depth discussion on labor challenges and legal protections across the district.
Distinguished Attendees:
Mr. Qamar Zia Malik, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Haripur
Mr. Tariq Mahmood, Assistant Director, Labor Department, Haripur
Mr. Muhammad Tahir, Workers Welfare Board, Haripur
Mr. Jan Sher Bhatti, President, Youth Empowerment Council, Haripur
Ms. Ambreen Khan Advocate, President, Women Workers Alliance, Haripur
Mr. Umar Javed, Director, Welfare Association Jared
Representatives from civil society, legal fraternity, and allied organizations
The core agenda centered on identifying and addressing district-wide labor issues from wage disputes and workplace safety to social security and access to justice. Participants highlighted the daily struggles faced by workers, especially in informal sectors, and emphasized the urgent need for:
Greater awareness of existing labor laws
Improved access to legal aid and grievance redressal mechanisms
Stronger collaboration between government and civil society
Officials from the Labor Department and Workers Welfare Board provided detailed briefings on current labor legislation, enforcement mechanisms, and support services available to workers. They also assured attendees of their commitment to resolving outstanding issues and strengthening implementation.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to:
Prioritize workers’ issues through joint advocacy and policy dialogue
Organize awareness sessions for workers and employers on labor rights and responsibilities
Expand legal aid services to ensure marginalized workers can access justice
Strengthen community engagement to empower workers to speak up and claim their rights
WAJ reaffirmed its role as a bridge between workers and institutions, pledging to continue facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues and action oriented initiatives to protect labor rights at the grassroots.
In closing, all participants expressed a unified resolve, Only through collective action can we ensure that labor laws are not just written on paper, but lived in practice. Together, stakeholders committed to building a fairer, safer, and more dignified working environment for every laborer in Haripur.
This meeting marks not an endpoint but a powerful beginning. WAJ will soon announce follow-up meetings with departments, including public awareness campaigns. Stay tuned!
