Geneva: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has called for immediate action to address the humanitarian and economic crisis faced by Palestinian workers in the Occupied Arab Territories. This call to action was delivered by Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain during the 353rd Session of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva.
According to Radio Pakistan, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, speaking on behalf of the OIC Group, urged the international community to intervene in addressing the dire conditions of Palestinian workers. He emphasized that Palestinian workers must have access to decent work and economic opportunities, which should be restored as a matter of urgency. He stated that the international community must not remain passive in the face of these ongoing injustices.
The OIC Group also commended the ILO’s efforts in highlighting the worsening economic conditions in Gaza and the West Bank. They stressed that the socioeconomic crisis in the occupied Palestinian territories is catastrophic and called for immediate, sustained action to rebuild critical infrastructure, restore economic resilience, and safeguard workers’ rights.
The Group highlighted key issues such as systematic movement restrictions, economic blockades, and discriminatory labor policies that impact Palestinian workers, especially women and vulnerable groups. They noted that these issues exacerbate existing inequalities and severely limit access to employment opportunities.
In addition, Chaudhry Salik Hussain urged the ILO and the international community to intensify efforts to support Lebanon’s recovery. He called for a coordinated effort to rebuild Lebanon’s infrastructure, address labor shortages, and restore economic confidence.
The OIC Group welcomed the formation of the new government in Lebanon and reaffirmed its unwavering support for Lebanon’s recovery. They urged ILO member states to contribute to Lebanon’s recovery plan, working closely with the Lebanese government and social partners to build a stable, prosperous, and resilient future.
Dr Bilal Ahmed, Permanent Representative of Pakistan Mission Geneva, Zulfiqar Ahmad, Secretary WWF Islamabad, and Shah Nazar Khan, HOC Geneva Mission, were also present at the occasion.