Human, labor, and women rights activists on Monday stressed the need for a unified movement to defend fundamental freedoms of citizens in Pakistan.
The discussion took place during a webinar titled “Where Do We Go From Here? A Year of Restricted Civic Freedoms in Pakistan,” hosted by The Knowledge Forum in Karachi.
Uzma Noorani, a prominent human rights activist, criticized the current political setup for failing to improve civic freedoms, citing ongoing repression of Baloch protesters. She also pointed to the difficulties faced by women’s rights groups like the Aurat March.
Veteran journalist Iqbal Khattak provided alarming statistics, revealing that 151 journalists were killed between 2000 and 2025, with the media landscape becoming increasingly dangerous for those seeking independence. Khattak acknowledged recent legislative progress aimed at protecting journalists but noted that implementation remains weak, particularly in Sindh, which he described as the most dangerous region for journalists.
Mirza Maqsood, a senior trade union leader, addressed the weakening of labor unions, particularly in the banking sector, due to privatization and legal changes. He called for greater unity among trade unions.
Human rights lawyer Ali Palh and Zeenia Shaukat, Director of The Knowledge Forum, also spoke.