KABUL (Pajhwok): Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Mawlawi Abdul Manan Omari has stressed that only Islamic Sharia can fully ensure and protect workers’ rights.
He made the remarks at a ceremony in Kabul on Tuesday to mark International Workers’ Day.
Omari said Islamic Sharia is the best framework for safeguarding workers’ rights compared to other legal systems.
He also said that some important labour institutions, including the National Union of Workers and Employees, had been damaged in the past and had lost their credibility in society.
He added that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has revived the union and was working to restore its credibility so it can effectively defend workers’ rights.
He explained the union could act as a social partner alongside the ministry in addressing workers’ problems.
Omari assured the ministry, in cooperation with the workers’ union, relevant institutions and the private sector, was working to address workers’ issues and create employment opportunities.
Meanwhile, a message from the supreme leader of IEA was read at the ceremony, stressing full respect for workers’ rights, as well as attention to health, nutrition, leave and other workplace entitlements.
Director of the Workers’ Union and Employees Mawlawi Abdul Mateen Mawlawi Zada described workers’ role in the country’s development as vital and stressed fair wages, improved working conditions and protection of their legitimate rights.
Deputy Minister of Economy Abdul Latif Nazari said workers were the backbone of the country’s economy, announcing the implementation of three worker-focused policies this year, including strengthening skilled labour, supporting domestic production and ensuring job security.
Representatives of government departments and the private sector pledged to support workers’ legal and Sharia-based rights and ensure their observance in workplaces.
Certificates of appreciation were also distributed to a number of workers and skilled employees at the end of the ceremony.
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