Amnesty International has called upon Pakistan’s authorities to address the systemic discrimination and human rights violations faced by sanitation workers, following the release of a comprehensive report. The organization’s findings highlight the violations of Pakistan’s obligations under international law, urging legislative reforms that conform with international norms. A report co-developed with the Centre for Law and Justice reveals how these workers, many from religious minorities like Dalits or Christians, often encounter discriminatory practices rooted in religion and caste.
The working conditions of sanitation workers in Pakistan are reportedly perilous, with inadequate protection under existing labor laws. Interviews conducted from February to September 2024 underline the stigmatization faced by these workers, whose roles are often seen as caste-designated occupations. Additional challenges include recruitment discrimination, as many claim they are offered inferior job roles due to societal views on their social status. Female workers suffer disproportionately, earning less and frequently engaged in informal employment, while employers often withhold steady contracts, stripping workers of security, benefits, and protections such as fair compensation and social security.
Safety concerns persist as workers are frequently denied access to protective equipment, contributing to health issues like allergies and respiratory problems. The vulnerabilities of their employment status compel many to continue working under these conditions, fearing sudden job termination. Amnesty International’s pressure on Pakistani authorities aims to instigate reforms, pushing for legal measures to eliminate all forms of discrimination based on religion and caste.
In light of these findings, Amnesty International has urged the Pakistani government to reassess labor laws to comply with international human rights responsibilities. Recommendations include legislation to ban caste-based discrimination, reform discriminatory recruitment practices, and improve worker safety and treatment. Article 26 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which mandates equal protection for all individuals, and the International Labour Organization’s Discrimination Convention against excluding preferences based on race, religion, or social origin, form the basis of these demands.
This appeal comes amid broader critiques of Pakistan’s treatment of religious minorities. For instance, Human Rights Watch emphasized the misuse of “blasphemy laws” against these communities, and the United Nations has condemned rising violence targeting religious minorities and their places of worship. Collectively, these reports suggest an urgent need for Pakistan to adopt legislative reforms to create a more equitable environment for all citizens.