Pakistan’s Human Rights Crisis: HRW Flags Suppression of Journalists and Activists

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised sharp concerns over Pakistan’s human rights record in 2025, accusing authorities of systematically suppressing media freedom, political dissent, and civil society through vague and overbroad laws.

In its World Report 2026, HRW said these measures violated Pakistan’s international obligations and created an atmosphere of fear among journalists, activists, and rights organisations. The report documented widespread intimidation, harassment, and violence against those critical of the government or militant groups.

Elaine Pearson, Asia Director at HRW, warned that the government’s actions undermined democratic values. She urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration to address longstanding rights concerns instead of silencing critics.

The 529-page report detailed cases of arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, and physical attacks on journalists. According to HRW, government threats and pressure fostered a culture of self-censorship, extending beyond newsrooms to civil society organisations.

HRW also highlighted the continued misuse of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws. These provisions, the organisation said, were frequently exploited to target religious minorities, enabling unlawful arrests, violence, land grabs, and extortion. Despite promises of procedural reforms, abuses continued throughout 2025.

Another major concern was the government’s mass deportation drive against Afghan refugees. The report stated that even long-recognised refugees were forced to leave, with more than 531,000 Afghans coerced into departing through intimidation and violence.

Human Rights Watch further documented growing pressure on non-governmental organisations. Authorities reportedly used surveillance, intimidation, and bureaucratic hurdles to restrict the operations of both domestic and international NGOs.

In a broader warning, HRW Executive Director Philippe Bolopion described the global rise of authoritarianism as “the challenge of a generation,” urging democratic nations and civil society groups to unite in defence of fundamental freedoms.

Calling for urgent reforms, HRW urged Pakistan to lift arbitrary restrictions on free expression, amend discriminatory laws, halt forced deportations, and strengthen protections for minorities and civil society. The organisation also appealed to Pakistan’s international partners to press for meaningful human rights improvements.

(With inputs from ANI)