Pakistan has a population of 180 million, a labour force of more than 56 million and issues of gender inequality.

Though; by law, no one could be discriminated on the basis of race, religion, caste, gender, residence or place of birth, one can experience discrimination almost in every industry when it comes to Job search. Below points highlight some of the provisions in Pakistani law that discourage rather, prohibit any sort of discrimination in Employment Opportunities offered in all industries.

The very basis of law in Pakistan is the 1973 constitution.

According to the Constitution of 1973

Article 26 says no person otherwise qualified can be discriminated against in the matter of employment on the basis of race, religion, caste, gender, residence or place of birth (Exceptions: specific services can be reserved for members of either sex if such posts/services require duties which cannot be adequately performed by the members of other sex, e.g. Lady Health Visitor)

Article 27 puts complete ban on discrimination on the basis of gender in appointment in "the service in Pakistan", provided that the performance and functions of the job can be carried out by, and is deemed suitable for, both sexes.

Article 32 of the constitution says that special representation shall be given to women in local government institutions (i.e., local bodies).

With unemployment rate hovering at around 13%, and most of them not well educated; considering the socio economic factors, discrimination is common and has to be reduced/eliminated by creating awareness among people. The first step to protect your rights is to know them.

Most of the labour force looking for jobs in Pakistan is not aware of their rights and hence a large number of people searching for work are a victim of discrimination. For your next job search, make sure you raise your voice against any sort of discrimination be it racial, religious, ethnic or of any sort. Constitution of Pakistan guarantees your right for Equal Employment Opportunity. Know your rights, don't be a victim of discrimination.

The role of recruitment companies and online job portals is vital in tihis regard. They should not only discourage discrimination, but try to ensure that the hiring made through them does not violate the equal employment opportunity provisions laid down in 1973 constitution of Pakistan.

Mustakbil.com, Pakistan's leading jobs website claims to be the only jobs website in Pakistan promoting equal employment opportunities by restricting Employers not to use any discriminatory language i.e. racial, sexual, religious or age while posting jobs at mustakbil.com. Though it does not ensure 100% equal employment opportunities, still it's a commendable step towards it.