The 18-member Human Rights Committee which monitors the implementation of International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) reviewed Pakistan’s initial report on 11-12 July 2017 in Geneva. Pakistan’s delegation was led by Minister for Human Rights Senator Kamran Michael and included Women’s Parliamentary Caucus General Secretary MNA Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, Geneva, Ambassador Farukh Amil, Secretary, Ministry of Human Rights Rabiya Javeria Agha and Chief Commissioner Afghan Refugees Dr Imran Zeb Khan.
The experts of the committee appreciated ratification of ICCPR and efforts of the government to implement the convention. They also highlighted challenges faced by the government in implementing the convention. ‘We believe that ICCPR upholds principles of human dignity, equality and non-discrimination which are essential for any democratic and inclusive society. Pakistan continues to uphold and make efforts to implement the provisions of the covenant which continues to contribute to strengthening of democracy and upholding rule of law, civil liberties and fundamental freedoms’, said HR Minister Kamran Michael.
The delegation thanked the committee for an open and constructive dialogue, responded to the questions and observations of the committee and reaffirmed government’s commitment to give further impetus to implement the provisions of the convention in accordance with Pakistan’s international human rights obligations and national human rights priorities with regard to advancement of civil and political rights.
