Mapping Labour Unions in Pakistan Introduction Mapping Labour Unions in Pakistan is a study undertaken by a group of researchers that seeks to draw a qualitative understanding of trade unions in Pakistan to assess their status, challenges, practices, status and strategies for incorporating diversity, the experience of engaging tripartite structures, institutions, allies, and dealing with recent developments. The study also presents a brief mapping of leading federations and unions in Pakistan. This mapping exercise has covered key characteristics of federations and trade unions in Pakistan. The study concludes with a listing of recommendations shared by trade unions and federations for action from government, civil society and trade unions themselves. Methodology The study is based on primary data with over two dozen key informant interviews which were conducted mostly in person as well as online, where needed. One focus group discussion was conducted in Karachi. Two categories of stakeholders have been covered in the primary reporting. These include trade union leaders(female and male), allies and supporters of trade unions(organisations and individuals that work closely with trade unions in the areas of mobilisation, advocacy, capacity building and resource support). Within this framework, the effort has been made to include actors who are considered to be at the periphery of unions, while a dedicated section on“Inclusion” with a specific set of inquiries has been incorporated. The said section focuses on women, religious minorities and people under thirty (young people) as members of trade unions. Structure of the Report The report has been divided into four sections. The first section presents a brief overview of trade unions highlighting the history, current status in terms of numerical strength, legislation and institutions regulating trade unions. This is followed by a brief list of key challenges to trade unions in Pakistan. 1