Pakistan’s failure to show sustained improvement in human rights has raised concerns regarding its eligibility for the European Union’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) status, despite over a decade of preferential treatment. Reports suggest that unless Pakistan addresses its human rights obligations more effectively, there is a strong case for suspending its GSP+ status. The country’s non-compliance with EU standards, particularly in areas like blasphemy laws, enforced disappearances, and minority persecution, has been highlighted.
The European Times report emphasized ongoing discrimination and violence against religious minorities in Pakistan, including Christians, Ahmadis, Hindus, and Shia Muslims. The EU’s monitoring reports have pointed out violations of freedom of religion and minority rights, urging Islamabad to take concrete steps against blasphemy-related discrimination and mob violence. Despite international scrutiny, Pakistan has not made comprehensive reforms to address these issues, leading to concerns about the lack of protection for vulnerable groups.
Furthermore, the report noted Pakistan’s human rights violations, such as enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, particularly in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Balochistan has been described as a “human rights black hole” due to allegations of security forces targeting activists and human rights defenders through abductions and secret detentions. These actions are seen as clear breaches of international human rights agreements, yet Pakistani authorities have not adequately addressed these concerns despite global attention.
The report also criticized Pakistan for its treatment of Afghan refugees, highlighting a mass campaign to expel undocumented Afghans back to Afghanistan under coercive measures. By the end of 2026, over 4.5 million Afghans had been deported amid reports of abuse and denial of due process. These actions have raised questions about Pakistan’s compliance with international commitments and its treatment of vulnerable populations.
