The European Union has raised serious concerns about human rights abuses in Pakistan, linking the country’s future access to trade benefits under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) to compliance with international commitments by 2027. The EU’s latest joint monitoring report highlighted Pakistan’s deficiencies in meeting obligations under the GSP+ framework, noting regression in several areas and limited positive changes. Issues such as enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and restrictions on freedom of expression were emphasized, indicating a deteriorating human rights situation in Pakistan.
The report expressed alarm over the rule of law and the shrinking space for civil society in Pakistan. It pointed out that enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings had increased without accountability for the perpetrators. Additionally, freedom of expression had worsened due to amendments in cybercrime, anti-terrorism, and blasphemy laws, leading to vague provisions being used against dissidents, journalists, minorities, and ordinary citizens. The report highlighted concerns about criminal and administrative procedures that could result in imprisonment, financial confiscation, or travel restrictions.
Recent constitutional amendments in Pakistan were criticized for undermining judicial independence and hindering fair trial processes. The report also mentioned issues like forced labor, amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act allowing arbitrary detention without charge or trial, and limitations on freedom of expression and access to information. It noted persistent cases of intimidation, harassment, and violence against journalists, as well as the misuse of blasphemy laws impacting freedom of expression and minority religious communities in Pakistan.
