In a somber recognition of its deteriorating civil liberties, Pakistan has been placed on Civicus Monitor’s human rights watchlist for 2025. This designation stems from an alarming crackdown on dissent and persistent suppression of civil space. Following a series of oppressive government actions, such as the targeting of petitioners and journalists, Pakistan’s status was categorised as “repressed.”
Civicus cited the alarming trend of criminalising activists and stifling political opposition, which silences public protest, particularly among ethnic minority groups. The recent cases of Mahrang Baloch and Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir illustrate a broader governmental effort to quash dissent. These courageous individuals are facing politically charged accusations as the state seeks to eradicate dissenting voices.
Rajavelu Karunanithi from Civicus denounced these tactics as a pernicious “political witch-hunt” and called for the immediate drop of charges against activists, along with the lifting of restrictions on the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement, which champions Pashtun rights. The repression extends beyond political groups, impacting communities like the Sindh and Baloch, who suffer significant governmental force against their assembly and expression.
The media is also a critical target, with journalists facing scrutiny under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) for alleged “false narratives” against state institutions. Amendments to PECA in January 2025 have further tightened government control over media, enabling harsher censorship on independent reporting. Civicus warns that such actions contradict Pakistan’s international responsibilities and UNHRC recommendations that advocate for peaceable expression.
Karunanithi concluded by imploring the Pakistani government to pivot towards safeguarding fundamental rights, emphasising accountability for those violating civil liberties. The path forward necessitates a renewed commitment to uphold the dignity of assembly and expression, essential for a thriving civil society.
Pakistan has been added to Civicus Monitor’s human rights watchlist for 2025 due to severe repression of civil liberties, including the targeting of activists and journalists. Recent developments highlight a concerning trend of suppressing dissent, particularly against ethnic minority groups, leading to a classification of Pakistan as ‘repressed.’ Civicus urges the Pakistani government to uphold fundamental rights and protect freedoms of assembly and expression.
The inclusion of Pakistan on Civicus Monitor’s 2025 watchlist underscores a grave concern for civil liberties as the government escalates its crackdown on dissent. The crackdown affects activists, journalists, and minority groups, raising alarms over a systematic suppression of fundamental rights. As the call for accountability and the protection of civil spaces resonates, it becomes imperative for the government to heed these warnings and restore the values of peaceable assembly and free expression.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
