The UN Human Rights Committee recently reviewed Pakistan's compliance with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and raised various concerns, including attacks on journalists, violence against religious minorities, and issues with freedom of expression. The Committee commended the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) in Pakistan for achieving "A" status in global rankings, affirming its role in overseeing human rights. However, members sought clarity on how Pakistan ensures the NCHR's independence and effectiveness in investigating alleged abuses by state institutions, including the military and police.
Several Committee members voiced concerns over widespread violence and impunity against journalists, noting that Pakistan has made limited progress in holding perpetrators accountable for these crimes. They requested information on specific prosecutions and measures that guarantee protection for journalists and their families. The Committee also highlighted the plight of religious minorities, noting rising harassment, forced conversions, and other forms of discrimination.
In response, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, Speaker of the Punjab Assembly and head of Pakistan’s delegation, pointed to laws recently enacted to address these issues, such as the Hindu Marriage Act, the Anti-Rape Act, and the Protection of Journalists Act. Khan emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing rights protections for journalists and minorities and stated that measures like forming investigative committees and deploying special forces around religious sites aim to bolster security for vulnerable groups.
The Committee members raised concerns about the implementation of Pakistan's blasphemy laws, which often lead to extrajudicial violence against religious minorities, sometimes with little accountability. While Pakistan’s delegation claimed it had taken steps to prevent blasphemy law misuse, Committee experts urged further reforms and stronger protections for minorities.
The Committee concluded with remarks from Tania María Abdo Rocholl, its Chairperson, who noted that discussions also covered issues like gender equality, children’s rights, anti-terrorism policies, and freedom of movement. She stated that the Committee’s final recommendations would focus on reinforcing human rights protections in Pakistan.
This meeting reflects ongoing international attention on Pakistan's human rights record, especially regarding freedom of expression and protections for minorities, and signals potential pressure for Pakistan to address these concerns ahead of future reviews.