DefinePK

Research Objective

To analyze Pakistan's compliance with the European Union's GSP Plus (GSP+) status, focusing on labor rights and child labor, and to identify challenges and policy recommendations.

Methodology

The study analyzes the EU's biennial review reports on Pakistan's GSP+ status, specifically focusing on the third report (2018-2019). It examines legal and institutional frameworks, identifies positive aspects and concerns related to labor rights, child labor, freedom of association, forced labor, discrimination, and occupational health and safety. The methodology involves reviewing international conventions (ILO), national legislation, and available data.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A[Review EU GSP+ Biennial Reports on Pakistan] --> B[Analyze Third Report2018-2019];
    B --> C[Identify Positive Aspects];
    B --> D[Identify ConcernsLabor Rights, Child Labor, etc.];
    C --> E[Document Progress and Commitments];
    D --> F[Assess Gaps in Implementation];
    E --> G[Synthesize Findings];
    F --> G;
    G --> H[Formulate Recommendations];                    

Discussion

The paper discusses the gap between Pakistan's ratified international conventions and their effective implementation. It highlights how poverty, lack of political will, weak enforcement mechanisms, and restrictive legislation hinder progress in eliminating child labor, forced labor, and ensuring freedom of association. The discussion also touches upon the gender pay gap and the persistent challenges in occupational health and safety.

Key Findings

Pakistan has shown commitment to GSP+ for economic benefits and has made legal and institutional progress in some areas. However, significant concerns remain regarding labor rights, particularly child labor, forced labor, weak labor inspection systems, low unionization rates, and discrimination against women in employment. The EU's third report highlighted shortcomings in effective implementation despite the existence of legal frameworks.

Conclusion

While Pakistan has benefited economically from the GSP+ status and has made some legislative advancements, substantial challenges persist in fully complying with labor rights and child labor conventions. Effective implementation requires stronger political will, increased resources for enforcement, capacity building, and greater inclusivity in monitoring mechanisms.

Fact Check

- Pakistan was granted GSP+ status by the EU in January 2014.
- Pakistan's exports to the EU increased from 4.53 billion euros in 2013 to 7.49 billion euros in 2019, a 65% increase.
- The Global Slavery Index 2018 estimated approximately 3,186,000 victims of modern forms of slavery in Pakistan.

Mind Map