In a pressing development for civil liberties, Pakistan has been added to Civicus Monitor’s human rights watchlist for 2025. This inclusion underscores a severe decline in the nation’s civil space, amidst an alarming crackdown on dissent, particularly targeting human rights advocates and journalists. Civicus, a global coalition supporting civil society, joins Pakistan with nations such as Italy and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, all witnessing shrinking civic freedoms.
Pakistan’s classification as “repressed” reflects the government’s increasingly oppressive measures against political freedoms and civil rights. Disturbing occurrences include the criminalisation of activists and suppression of the opposition, as well as stifling protests from ethnic and minority groups. Digital restrictions have further limited free expression, fuelling public concern about civil rights in the country.
Highlighted are the politically motivated charges against activists Mahrang Baloch and Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, signalling an aggressive government tactic to silence dissent. Civicus’ Advocacy and Campaign Officer for Asia, Rajavelu Karunanithi, condemned these developments, urging the government to dismiss fabricated charges and lift the ban on the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), a fervent advocate for Pashtun rights.
Moreover, the repression extends beyond political opposition, affecting ethnic groups like the Sindhis and Baloch, faced with severe government crackdowns. Civicus denounces these actions as violations of Pakistan’s international human rights obligations.
Adding to the concerns is the targeting of journalists, particularly under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), with accusations of spreading disinformation used to justify censorship. Amendments to PECA in January 2025 have tightened government control, raising alarms about the state’s handling of free speech and press freedoms.
Civicus asserts that these measures not only contravene Pakistan’s international commitments but also defy recommendations made by the UN Human Rights Committee. In closing, Karunanithi called on the Pakistani government to safeguard peaceful assembly and expression rights, demanding accountability for those infringing upon these fundamental freedoms.
Pakistan has been placed on Civicus Monitor’s 2025 human rights watchlist due to escalating repression and a significant decline in civil space. Notable concerns include the targeting of activists and journalists, suppression of dissent, and censorship. Civicus reports ongoing violations of international human rights obligations, calling for the protection of fundamental rights and accountability for abuses.
Pakistan’s inclusion in the Civicus Monitor’s human rights watchlist serves as a stark warning about its deteriorating civil liberties landscape. The alarming repression of dissent, targeting of activists, and stringent controls on free speech signify a nation struggling to uphold fundamental human rights, warranting urgent action from the government. As the international community observes, it remains imperative for Pakistan to reevaluate its policies and protect the voices of its citizens.
Original Source: www.aninews.in
