A WORKPLACE is more than a mere brick-and-mortar structure; it is the ecosystem where individuals, day after day, invest their mental, physical and emotional energies. Yet, in Pakistan and many other developing nations, workspaces remain fundamentally flawed devoid of compassion, basic comfort and scientific rationale.

Despite the fact that modern lives are accelerating at an unprecedented pace and workers are perpetually overburdened, the prevailing ethos among employers and organisations continues to reflect an archaic mindset: one that prizes prolonged physical presence over genuine productivity and output.

This outdated culture suffocates creativity, and contributes to burnout, declining mental health, and a rapid deterioration in an individual`s potential.

Even when most workers happen to be underpaid and overworked, there is little conversation let alone action about creating a humane, healthy and productive work environment. We should at least be talking about such matters on occasions like the Labour Day, which the world is observing today (May 1).

Many employees operate out of suffocating spaces, with improper ventilation and lighting. The culture of mistrust between employers and workers has led to a deep disconnect and deterioration in both morale and efficiency. Workers continue to suffer in silence, delivering output under inhumane conditions and getting paid a pittance for it robbed of dignity, rest and even respect.

As such, countries around the world have acknowledged direct links between on-the-job rest and overall mental wellness, job satisfaction, and productivity. To ensure work-life balance, workers get ample breaks, paid vacations, and flexible hours. These countries understand thatemployees are not machines, and they need periodic recharging during the day.

Wellness spaces are not frivolous luxuries; they are strategic tools aimed at harnessing peak performance and preserving talent. The logic is simple: a contented, well-rested employee will outperform a stressed, sleep-deprived one.

Productivity does not come from pressure; it stems from psychological security, physical wellbeing, and a sense of being valued.

The scene in Pakistan is quite different, with most workspaces failing to meet even the basic standards related to occupational health and safety. A rational approach would be to introduce scientifically supported policies tailored to our context.

Implementing such policies does not require astronomical budgets. All it requires is a shift in mindset.

It is high time we acknowledged the cruelty embedded in our work culture, where an honest day`s work often demands more than what any worker should have to give; and give without gratitude, without comfort, and without dignity.

Pakistan must catch up with the world, and begin treating its workforce with the respect, care and compassion it deserves.

Anything less is both a moral failure and a recipe for national stagnation.

Majid Burfat Karachi