May 19, 2025 (press release) –
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (ILO News) – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have launched a strategic partnership to promote responsible conduct and strengthen human rights due diligence across Pakistan’s business sector as part of UNDP’s Huqooq-e-Pakistan II Programme, supported by the European Union (EU).
The partnership, formalized through an agreement signed by Dr. Samuel Rizk, UNDP Resident Representative in Pakistan, and Mr. Geir Tonstol, Country Director of the ILO in Pakistan, marks a shared commitment to advancing labour rights, responsible business practices, and embedding human rights at the heart of economic growth.
“This partnership reflects our joint commitment to placing human dignity and decent work at the core of economic development,” said Mr. Tonstol. “Labour rights are fundamental human rights, and businesses must treat them as both a legal obligation and a strategic priority.”
Aimed at strengthening private sector engagement to promote human rights, this partnership will focus on supporting the Government of Pakistan in meeting its national and international commitments as per the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP-BHR), ILO Conventions, UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), and the GSP+ framework. This will be done by providing technical support to strengthen institutional frameworks, with targeted interventions in Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Islamabad Capital Territory.
“Human rights due diligence is not just an ethical or legal standard – it is a catalyst for sustainable growth, innovation, and resilience,” said Dr. Rizk while speaking at the ceremony. “At UNDP, we are committed to building systems that protect all workers, promote fairness, and align business conduct with the needs of people and planet.”
In addition to legislative reform and institutional strengthening, the partnership will promote meaningful engagement between businesses, trade unions, civil society, and human rights defenders. A national forum will be established to encourage dialogue, share best practices, and ensure that fairness, accountability, and inclusion remain central to business operations and policy reforms.
The partnership builds on the foundation laid by previous initiatives, including UNDP’s business and human rights programme and the ILO-EU International Labour and Environmental Standards (ILES) project. It marks a vital step toward creating a business environment in Pakistan that is inclusive, responsible, and aligned with international best practices – paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.
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