Pakistan’s vital trade concessions under the GSP+ framework are under review as a European Union delegation assesses the nation’s human rights record, acknowledging advancements while highlighting areas requiring further attention to fully meet international obligations.
Federal Minister for Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, met with the visiting EU monitoring delegation at the ministry on Thursday. The European team was led by Mr. Sergio Balibrea, Advisor to the GSP+ Directorate (DG TRADE), and included EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis, according to an official statement.
During the discussions, Islamabad reaffirmed its strong dedication to the GSP+ framework, underscoring the partnership’s central role in advancing governance reforms and institutional strengthening. Officials noted that as a major beneficiary, Pakistan has leveraged the program to harmonize domestic laws with global conventions.
The Minister pointed to Pakistan’s recent election to the UN Human Rights Council as evidence of international confidence in the country’s constructive engagement on the world stage.
The EU delegation received a briefing on significant legislative and policy developments made since 2014, particularly concerning the protection of women, children, labour, marginalized communities, and persons with disabilities. The government reiterated its resolve to uphold human rights despite facing substantial challenges like counter-terrorism pressures and climate vulnerabilities.
Key institutional achievements were also presented, including the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) retaining its prestigious ‘A’ status. The independent functioning of the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) and the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) was also emphasized.
Officials confirmed that the implementation of the National Action Plan on Human Rights and a similar plan for Business and Human Rights is actively underway at both federal and provincial levels.
Significant strides in gender equality were outlined, citing the National Gender Policy Framework (2022) and flagship initiatives like the Benazir Income Support Programme, which benefits over 9.1 million women, as major drivers of socio-economic inclusion.
On child rights, the government detailed the establishment of the NCRC, the ZARRA centre for missing children, and other child protection institutes. Recent legislative steps to combat child marriage and ongoing efforts to address child labour and online exploitation were also shared.
Reaffirming a pledge to freedom of expression, the ministry’s representatives discussed the work of the National Commission for Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals. Updates were provided on sensitive issues, including a reduction in capital offenses, the Torture and Custodial Death Act’s enforcement, and a claimed 85% case resolution rate by the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances.
The European delegation acknowledged the country’s progress but noted that more work is needed to fully comply with the 27 core UN conventions tied to GSP+ status. Minister Tarar assured the officials that Pakistan remains fully committed to these obligations.
Welcoming the EU’s constructive suggestions on improving data integration and implementation mechanisms, the government affirmed that these points are being incorporated into ongoing reforms. Pakistan also expressed its commitment to sustaining progress and strengthening human rights protections for a more inclusive future.