The European Union has expressed serious concern over the human rights situation in Pakistan. It has warned that Pakistan’s continued access to trade benefits under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus, or GSP+, will depend on its compliance with international commitments under the revised GSP framework from 2027.
The observations have been made in the latest Joint Monitoring Report for the 2023-2025 period, prepared by the European Commission and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The report says Pakistan showed shortcomings in meeting its obligations under the GSP+ framework during the review period.
According to the assessment, Pakistan witnessed regression in several areas, while positive progress remained limited. The report expressed concern over the rule of law and the shrinking space for civil society. It noted an increase in cases of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
The report also said there was little accountability for those responsible. The report said freedom of expression had deteriorated following further amendments to cybercrime, anti-terrorism and blasphemy laws.
The report also expressed concern over recent constitutional amendments. It said the changes had drawn criticism for further weakening judicial independence. The report also said forced labour remained a serious concern.
The assessment referred to recent amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act and related laws in Balochistan and Punjab. According to the report, these amendments appear to permit preventive and arbitrary detention without charge or trial and without meaningful judicial review or effective legal remedies.
Highlighting the condition of minority communities, the report said they continued to face discrimination, individual attacks, mob violence and damage to places of worship.
The European Union also observed that prosecution of hate crimes against minorities remained limited. According to the report, this had contributed to impunity for perpetrators and fear among victims. It further stated that Pakistan’s legal framework does not adequately recognise or protect religious, ethnic and linguistic minorities.
