According to Beyond Time News, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised serious concerns in its annual report for 2025, warning of a sharp decline in civic freedoms, weakening judicial independence, and growing insecurity across the country.
The report, titled “State of Human Rights in 2025,” was launched in Islamabad and presented by senior HRCP leadership, including Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt, former chairperson Hina Jilani, and Secretary General Harris Khalique.
“Human Rights in Worst State,” Says HRCP Leadership
During the launch, HRCP Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt described the situation as extremely alarming. He said human rights conditions in Pakistan were at their lowest level in years.
He called the report a “charge sheet” rather than a simple document, highlighting serious violations recorded throughout the year.
Butt also stated that 273 cases of enforced disappearances were reported in 2025. He added that some individuals were recovered from state-linked facilities, while many others remain untraced.
He stressed that anyone accused of wrongdoing should be presented before courts instead of being held outside the legal system.
Freedom of Expression Under Pressure
The report highlights a major decline in freedom of expression during 2025. It states that people faced growing restrictions when questioning authority or demanding accountability.
According to HRCP, journalists, activists, political workers, and lawyers were increasingly targeted under expanded legal provisions.
Laws such as the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), along with sedition and anti-terrorism regulations, were reportedly used to silence dissent.
The report also notes rising fear, intimidation, and self-censorship, which has limited open public debate.
Concerns Over Detention Laws and Judicial Independence
HRCP expressed concern over amendments to anti-terror laws that allow detention without charge or judicial review for extended periods.
The report warns that such changes weaken basic rights, including liberty and due process.
It also highlights growing worries about judicial independence. HRCP points to constitutional changes and key court decisions that, according to the report, have reduced democratic space and increased executive influence.
The report further mentions controversial rulings involving military trials of civilians and political party-related decisions that raised concerns about fairness and legal consistency.
Security Situation and Human Rights Violations
HRCP reported that counter-terrorism operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan led to significant casualties, affecting both civilians and security personnel.
It also raised concerns about ongoing enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and collective punishment practices.
Vulnerable groups, including women, children, religious minorities, and transgender individuals, continue to face discrimination and violence with limited legal protection.
Workers such as miners and sanitation staff also remain exposed to unsafe working conditions, with little improvement in safety measures.
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Climate Impact and Government Response
The report notes that climate-related disasters, especially in Gilgit-Baltistan, caused loss of life and damaged infrastructure.
However, HRCP criticizes the government’s response, stating it remains reactive rather than focused on long-term planning and prevention.
Some Positive Developments Noted
Despite the concerns, the report also acknowledges a few positive steps.
The passage of the National Commission for Minorities Act is seen as an important move toward protecting religious minority rights.
Progress was also noted in laws against child marriage in Islamabad and Balochistan.
Additionally, higher courts issued decisions supporting women’s rights in inheritance and marriage cases.
Targeted welfare programs and provincial reforms were also mentioned, though HRCP described their impact as gradual and limited.
Conclusion
The HRCP 2025 report presents a mixed but largely concerning picture of human rights in Pakistan. While some legal reforms show progress, the overall situation is marked by shrinking civic space, legal pressures, and ongoing human rights challenges that demand urgent attention.
