Extension of Labor Laws in the Informal Economy of Pakistan: Brick Kiln Industry as a Case Study

Abstract

The extension of labor laws in the informal economy, particularly to the brick-kiln industry, has ever been remained debatable. However, some common beliefs prevail that notwithstanding the prompt increase of the informal economy in Pakistan, there is nothing serious concern shown by the government to observe this type of economy for various labor regulations; and none of the labor laws are extendable to brick kiln industry. In such a background, this research paper evaluates the extension of some of the labor laws in the brick kiln industry of Pakistan. Although, the regulation of industrial establishments in informal economy may not be usually a priority for the government, but still some of the labor laws are directly applicable to the brick-kiln industry. This paper examines the role of labor laws in shaping of brick kiln industry up to the level of a factory and then extension of labor laws to it accordingly. It concludes that some of the labor laws are extendable to the brick-kiln industry, and in any case, want of extension of labor laws in this industry would mean that majority of the growing work-force shall continue to be exploited at the hand of the owners of the brick-kilns.