In Memoriam: Honoring the Legacy of Fasihul Karim Siddiqi, Founder of Global Compact Network Pakistan
Today, we mourn the loss of a visionary leader, a trailblazer, and a true champion of sustainability. Fasihul Karim Siddiqi’s impact will be forever cherished and his legacy will endure, shaping a more sustainable future for generations.
Fasihul Karim Siddiqi, visionary leader, champion of sustainability, and founder of Global Compact Network Pakistan, has left an indelible mark on the corporate world. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of a true visionary, whose pioneering spirit laid the foundation of the United Nations Global Compact Network in Pakistan back in 2005 and transformed the landscape of responsible business practices in Pakistan and beyond.
Mr. Siddiqi passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 27th, 2023 at the age of 74 years, leaving a void that will be felt by colleagues, partners, and the wider global community.
Born on the first of January 1948, Mr. Siddiqi was driven by a profound sense of purpose and a deep commitment to social responsibility. He embarked on his professional journey in Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) and migrated to Pakistan prior to the fall of East Pakistan. Later on, he joined Philips Pakistan and rose to the heights of the corporate level through the domains of Industrial Relations and Human Rights. He then joined Hinopak Motors as its General Manager of HR and Admin for the next 24 and as Director of HR, Admin, and Supply Chain in 2010.
He possessed extensive practical experience in matters pertaining to IR, labor issues, and labor unions, and displayed strong advocacy and commitment to industrial legal affairs. Having been elected as Vice President of the Employers’ Federation of Pakistan on two occasions, he served the organization in various capacities for the past four decades including its Secretary General for quite some time.
His expertise also extended to the realm of academia, where he imparted the knowledge at several universities in Karachi and business institutes, including IBA, Bahria University, IoBM, NICE, and PIQC, among others. Notably, it was at IBA where he delivered his final lecture on Industrial Relations, drawing his last breaths thereafter. As a seasoned trainer, he approached HR matters with a practical outlook and conducted numerous training sessions on HR, IR, and HSE.
Moreover, he spearheaded several projects with the ILO, MACN, and United Nations, among others. He was known for his erudition and humility, always ready to assist those seeking knowledge.
Let us honor his memory by redoubling our efforts to create a world where businesses thrive alongside communities and the environment, where profit is harmonized with purpose, and where social impact is an integral part of every organization’s DNA.
We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Fasihul Karim Siddiqi’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May his legacy serve as a guiding light for generations to come, inspiring us all to strive for a more sustainable and just world.
He is survived by two daughters, Farheen Rashid, and Bushra Raza.
Regards;
President
Majyd Aziz & Team GCNP
2 Comments
From a father’s princess to her best mate since birth, you were my best friend, our biggest support who was our shield against the odds of life. I could feel the broken shield in my heart since the day you passed away. I will always miss your hugs, love and best advices that kept me going through the thick and thins of my life.
You passed away following your passion to disseminate knowledge to others. You died the way you always wished for by remaining independent and not burdening anyone around you even for a second.
I never thought that you will leave us just a few days before we had to meet again… life is so very unpredictable.
You were a legend at every forum that you served. Be it Employers Federation, UN Global Compact, Lions Clubs International, Corporate sector, universities etc etc., you have touched the life of everyone who interacted with you in any sphere of their lives. Your energy and enthusiasm has led to innumerable feats in your unmatched personal and professional endeavors.
We, as your daughters feel so so proud and overwhelmed by the immense influence you had on thousands of people around you. What better fate could we have than to be known as your daughters.
Since the day you left us, we have faced the most challenging days of our lives but then we wear the crown of our troubles as your princesses to lead the best life that you wished for us.
Me and my family would like to thank everyone who extended their condolences and support during this time. It means the most to us that our father was loved and admired by so many people at the National and international level.
You were a mentor, teacher, consultant, advisor, guru, figurehead and a Godfather who devoted his life to value and give his best shot in each of his relationship at personal and professional level.
You were the best father, extraordinary father in law, greatest nana, sweetest brother, favorite uncle and no one just no one can be like you.
As I leave Pakistan today, I recollect each memory of our time spent together in our house from my childhood to adult hood stored in my heart for lifetime. Our lives will never be the same without you.
Rest in peace papa till we meet again. You were the best papa. Love you the most and will miss you in every bit of my life.
Lots of love from papa ki laadli rani
I had the privilege of getting to know Mr Fasihul Karim Siddiqi just two years ago when Mr Syed Nazar from EFP introduced me to him at a seminar as he was seeking a human right consultant at that time.
From my very first interaction, it was evident that he possessed an exceptional personality. Later, his team reached out to me, and together we conducted two webinars on the UN Guiding Principles 4 and 5 “Labour” and many consultations.
Throughout our collaboration, Mr Fasih proved to be an incredibly encouraging and humble individual, reflecting his vast experience in his field. Despite his accomplishments, he remained down-to-earth and dedicated to promoting and nurturing new talents. His commitment to supporting people was truly commendable.
Over the span of two years, I found myself drawn to Mr Fasih’s unwavering support and guidance. Whenever I had new ideas, he actively engaged with me, offering valuable insights and playing an instrumental role in their improvement. His mentorship has been invaluable, allowing me to achieve success in various endeavours.
One particular moment that stands out is when he reached out to invite me as a panelist for the prestigious “National Conference for Business and Human Rights” by UN Global Network Pakistan. As the CEO of Theori ‘Y’, a management consulting firm, it was a significant honour to participate in such an esteemed event.
Mr Fasih’s faith in me and his recognition of my capabilities meant the world. As I venture forward professionally, I am certain that I will deeply miss Mr Siddiqui’s guidance at every new step I take. I have preserved his messages, knowing that they will serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration whenever I require it.
May Allah bestow upon Mr Fasih the highest place in Jannah for his remarkable personality, his unwavering support for all, and his exceptional contributions to the field. Ameen.
kiran.zubair@ymail.com
No words can adequately express the magnificence of Fasihul Karim Siddiqi Sb. Each person had their own unique experience with him, but he served as a mentor, a paternal figure, and a remarkable teacher to all of us. From my time as his MBA student to working under him at EFP and GCNP, there was never a moment when I couldn’t learn something new from him.
He was truly an extraordinary individual who possessed the skills to lead, guide, and provide unwavering support to those in need throughout their professional journey. His attentive listening and ability to offer the best solutions to any problem presented to him were remarkable. I consider myself blessed by the Almighty to have had such an exceptional mentor in my life. He was an institution in himself, radiating an awe-inspiring personality and serving as a beacon of knowledge and guidance.
His passing is an immense loss to anyone who had the privilege of meeting him even once. An era has concluded with his departure, but we can only hope that his legacy will endure.
Fasih Sb, you will always be remembered. May you attain the highest ranks in Jannat-ul-Firdous. May Allah grant your family and all those who were fortunate enough to share moments with you the strength to cope with this tragedy.
With utmost humility,
A lifelong protégé of yours.
I have had the privilege of working with Sir Fasih for the past one and a half years, and during this time, I have experienced firsthand his kindness, warmth, and guidance. As a graduate student and someone in the early stages of my professional journey, having him as my boss was truly an honor. He consistently provided me with opportunities to explore new territories and showcase my IT skills to the fullest.
Sir Fasih would encourage his entire staff to venture into uncharted territories without fear, knowing that he had our backs should we encounter any challenges. He had a unique way of caring for his team members, keeping a watchful eye on their progress while simultaneously displaying great affection.
I am immensely grateful to him for believing in my abilities and granting me the chance to work alongside him. His passing is an immense loss, not only for his family but also for the GCNP community. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, and I pray that he finds eternal peace.
You will always be remembered, Sir Fasih.