Who We Are
The Labour Research & Development Institute (LRDI) is a not-for-profit organization established with the vision of creating a just and equitable society where every worker in Pakistan enjoys decent work conditions, fundamental rights, and social protection.
Founded by a group of dedicated labour rights activists, researchers, and legal experts, LRDI has grown from a small initiative into a nationally recognized institution that bridges the gap between workers’ realities and policy-making processes at the federal and provincial levels.
Our approach is rooted in evidence-based research, grassroots mobilization, and strategic partnerships with local and international organizations committed to the advancement of labour rights and social justice in Pakistan.
2014
Established
4
Provinces Operational Reach
10+
Years of Service
Our Mission
To promote and protect labour rights through rigorous research, capacity building, policy advocacy, and community mobilization, ensuring that workers’ voices are heard in decision-making processes at all levels — from factory floors to parliament.
Our Vision
A Pakistan where all workers — regardless of sector, gender, or employment status — enjoy decent work, fair wages, safe workplaces, social protection, and the freedom to organize and collectively bargain for their rights without fear or discrimination.
Our Values
Justice, equality, transparency, inclusion, and solidarity form the foundation of our work. We believe in the power of collective action and are committed to serving the most marginalized workers — women, children, migrants, and those in the informal economy.
Our Strategic Goals
Strengthen Labour Rights Framework
Advocate for comprehensive labour law reforms aligned with ILO conventions and ensure effective implementation at provincial and federal levels through sustained engagement with lawmakers and policy institutions.
Build Workers’ Organizing Capacity
Develop leadership skills among workers and trade unionists to effectively organize, negotiate, and represent their members’ interests in collective bargaining and workplace governance structures.
Generate Evidence-Based Knowledge
Produce high-quality research on labour market dynamics, working conditions, and policy impacts to inform advocacy strategies and contribute to public discourse on decent work in Pakistan.
Promote Gender Equality at Work
Address gender-based discrimination in the workplace, promote women’s participation in trade unions and leadership roles, and advocate for policies that support women workers’ specific needs and challenges.
Our Approach
We employ a multi-pronged strategy that combines research, training, advocacy, and community engagement to create lasting change.
Research First
Every intervention is backed by rigorous data collection and analysis to ensure evidence-based action.
Community Driven
Workers are at the center of our programs — as participants, leaders, and decision-makers.
Advocacy Led
We translate research findings into policy demands and amplify workers’ voices at every level.
Sustainable Impact
We build local capacity and systems that continue to deliver results long after projects end.