Ayesha Irfan
Our faith emphasizes the need of fairness, justice and dignity in the workplace. According to Islam any physical or mental effort made to earn an honest living is considered labor, and all labors should be respected. Labors should be proud of their work regardless of their nature. As Islam teaches there is no hierarchy among professions.
Unfortunately, these rights are often violated in Islam. Many workers are not paid on time and are denied fair wages where-as the Quran states:
“And give the laborer his wage before his sweat dries.” (4:36)
Labors are forced to work long hours in hazardous conditions, and they are also oppressed, manipulated and abused. They are also often deprived of basic necessities like food, clothing and shelter. The lack of affective labor laws exploitation. Further-more the prevalence of child labor, laws and enforcement mechanisms leaves workers vulnerable to exploration. Furthermore, the prevalence of child labor, bonded labor (when someone is forced to work to pay of a debt) and forced labor is proof that we need to change our policies as soon as possible.
To address these issues, it is essential that we work together to strengthen labor laws and enforcement mechanisms. This can be achieved by spreading awareness through posters and campaigns. Supporting advocacy efforts and publishing policy reforms. Additionally, must take responsibility for ensuring fair labor practices. Workers should be given holidays and days off in case of injury, they are also human we should respect them.
