The Human Rights Commission (HRCM)’s Vice President Mohamed Shafeeq Mahmood has said workplace safety can only be effectively ensured if the whole society works together.
Speaking at the launch ceremony of HRCM-CSO Partnership Forum, Shafeeq highlighted growing concerns about worker safety issues. Noting that cases related to worker safety have increased recently, he said the theme for the forum, “Occupational Health and Safety”, makes the forum especially timely.
Shafeeq stressed that workplace challenges and safety risks can only be addressed when communities are informed and with the collective contribution of all. He noted that civil society organisations are key partners in spreading information, promoting human rights, and helping improve worker protection.
He further noted that the forum provides a platform to identify and highlight difficulties faced by workers, and propose new ideas for improving safety. He urged agencies and other stakeholders to participate actively to ensure proper implementation of worker safety laws.
According to HRCM, the forum aims to gather feedback from associations and better understand risks to workers. This would contribute to changes in laws and regulations, the commission said.
The one-day forum was attended by 30 stakeholders, including NGOs and featured panel discussions and presentations on workplace safety. This was the first HRCM-CSO Partnership Forum of the year, and the next forum is scheduled for September.