Human Rights In Pakistan: Challenges & Solutions
As we navigate the intricacies of the modern world, human rights remains one of the most essential challenges that we face. Pakistan, with its rich history and diverse culture, is no stranger to human rights issues
It is important to investigate the prevailing challenges, violations, and potential solutions to ensure that we form an equal society.
Human rights and obstacles on the Way to a Fair Society
These are the hurdles and challenges we need to analyze and assess in order to give the equal and fair rights that the people of Pakistan deserve.
Freedom of Speech: Is It an Unattainable Hope?
Even though it’s a fundamental right, freedom of speech remains a controversial topic in Pakistan. The recent surge in blasphemy cases and the enforcement of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (2016) have raised concerns about the government’s intent to stifle dissenting voices. The case of banning ARY News in 2022, the largest news channel in Pakistan, highlights the dire need for reforms.
Discrimination: A Pervasive Plague
Prejudices against religious and ethnic minorities, as well as gender-based discrimination, persists in Pakistan. One major example of this biasness is the Ahmadiyya community, they face severe restrictions, while the women in the country continue to fight for equal rights. The Aurat March, a feminist movement, has prompted crucial discussions about gender equality
Violence and Harassment: An Ever-Present Trepidation
Violence against women, children, and minorities is a stark reality in Pakistan. The motorway gang rape incident in 2020 and the ongoing plight of the Hazara community are grim reminders of the state’s failure to protect its citizens.
Disability Rights: An Overlooked Concern
The absence of infrastructure for the disable and limited access to necessary resources and provisions like education and employment opportunities is what’s keeping them behind and among the minorities.
Additionally, the lack of government support and awareness about the needs of people with disabilities, makes it even harder for them to live fulfilling lives.
Children's Rights: An Uncertain Future
Fighting for Humans: Solutions that are a Collective Responsibility
Pakistan has one of the highest execution rates in the world. The death penalty is often handed down in questionable circumstances, while extrajudicial killings, such as the Naqeebullah Mehsud case, perpetuate a culture of impunity.
1. Legislative Reforms
The government needs to improve laws to better protect our human rights, and ensure these laws are properly enforced. This means creating stronger rules and ensuring they are followed to prevent violations.
2. Education and Awareness
Awareness campaigns that teach people about human rights through schools and community programs is a necessary measure that should be implemented on a higher level. This helps everyone understand their rights and how to protect them.
3. Independent Institutions
There should be the implementation of organizations that can investigate and report on human rights abuses without being influenced by the government or other groups. This will ensure that all wrongdoers are held accountable and brought to justice.
4. Civil Society Engagement
If the institutions like the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the media, and the public cooperate with each other, they can bring reforms. Their teamwork will help raise awareness and advocate for change.
In Retrospect
The human rights issues in Pakistan demand immediate attention and action. The first step of bringing reform is always acknowledging the challenges, after that we can work together to bring justice to the table. In order to create a fair and equitable society, let’s join hands and ensure that even the basic rights of every individual are respected and protected. At Rava, we are dedicated to exposing the harsh realities of human rights violation through powerful documentary films. Our mission is to educate, raise awareness and spark meaningful action that promotes the protection and empowerment of individuals, ultimately driving a movement towards a more just and equitable world.