US lawmakers have commended the Punjab government for launching sweeping Punjab brick kiln reforms aimed at eliminating bonded labour and modernising one of the province’s oldest industries, calling the initiative a milestone for both human rights and US Pakistan relations.
In a letter to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Congressional Pakistan Caucus members Thomas Suozzi and Jack Bergman praised the administration’s “visionary” commitment to transforming the kiln sector through mechanisation and stricter labour protections. They said the initiative aligns with global standards and responds to long-standing concerns documented in international assessments.
The lawmakers referenced the US State Department’s 2022 Trafficking in Persons Report, which estimates that more than 4.5 million Pakistanis remain trapped in the bonded labour system, particularly through the peshgi (advance payment) cycle entrenched in the kiln industry.
Economic and Ethical Impact Highlighted
The caucus noted that briefings they received underscored the Punjab government’s strong resolve to push these reforms forward. They stressed that modernising kilns will not only curb abusive labour practices but also help Pakistan meet international compliance benchmarks, making the province a more attractive destination for foreign investment — especially from American companies prioritising ethical supply chains.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The letter said the reforms could serve as a model for other regions and enhance broader US Pakistan relations by aligning economic cooperation with human rights progress. Punjab, the caucus wrote, is well positioned to act as a pilot province for sustainable labour transformation.
Reaffirming their backing, the lawmakers assured the chief minister that the Congressional Pakistan Caucus “wholeheartedly supports all efforts to end bonded labour” and encouraged the provincial leadership to seek assistance as needed.
