UN Raises Concerns Over Pakistan’s Bonded Labour Ratio

News Desk

ISLAMABAD: The United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights has concluded its review of Pakistan’s second periodic report under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, commending the country’s recent legal amendment that raises the minimum age of marriage to 18.

This significant change, enacted in 2025, applies equally to both males and females, marking a progressive step in the fight against child marriage.

Committee expert Michael Windfuhr praised the amendment to the Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929 but expressed concerns regarding the persistent issue of child brides in Pakistan. He urged the government to provide detailed information on the effectiveness of measures implemented to combat child marriage and protect vulnerable children.

Additionally, Lazhari Bouzid, another committee expert, highlighted the ongoing prevalence of bonded labour, particularly in the agricultural sector, raising alarms about the exploitation of workers in the country. The committee’s inquiries reflect a broader concern for human rights and social justice in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms.

Looking ahead, the Pakistani delegation reported that approximately 600,000 homes destroyed in the 2022 floods have been rebuilt, showcasing the government’s commitment to reconstruction efforts. However, the committee’s focus on bonded labour and child marriage indicates that further action is needed to address these critical issues. The government is expected to respond to the committee’s recommendations in future meetings, aiming to enhance its human rights framework.