Labour Legislation and The Transformational Influence of The 18th Amendment in Pakistan

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between labour legislation and the transformative impact of the 18th Amendment in Pakistan. It traces the historical development of federalism and labour legislations from the country’s founding to the present, using a descriptive analysis of secondary sources. Emphasis is placed on understanding the decentralisation of authority and responsibility following constitutional changes, particularly in the context of labour regulation. The paper analyses national and provincial labour legislation post-18th Amendment, focusing on policy shifts, enforcement mechanisms, and labour rights protection at both levels of government. Special attention is given to the Amendment's impact on labour rights, industrial relations, and the regulatory framework. Additionally, the study highlights challenges in implementing the 18th Amendment, such as inter-provincial disparities in labour standards, coordination between federal and provincial agencies, legal ambiguities, and the need for legislative harmonisation. This research offers valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of federalism and labour policy in Pakistan.