Islamabad, February 1, 2025 – The Europe Today: Ambassador Olof Skoog, the European Union (EU) Special Representative for Human Rights (EUSR), recently concluded a week-long visit to Pakistan. The mission aimed to engage Pakistan on critical human rights and labour rights issues, while also discussing the country’s plans to address these concerns, particularly in light of the ongoing assessment under the GSP+ trade scheme.
During his visit, Ambassador Skoog met with federal and provincial government ministers, military leadership, senior officials, United Nations representatives, human rights defenders, legal experts, civil society organizations, media professionals, and business leaders. The Special Representative reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in fulfilling its human rights obligations and urged inclusive consultations with all stakeholders, particularly civil society.
“Pakistan remains a key partner for the EU in South Asia. Our relationship is built on shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, guided by the principles of the UN Charter and international norms. The EU welcomes the fact that Pakistan has become the largest beneficiary of GSP+, with Pakistani businesses increasing their exports to the EU market by 108% since the trade scheme’s launch in 2014.
As we approach the midterm of the current monitoring cycle, we encourage Pakistan to continue on its reform path as it prepares for reapplication under the upcoming new GSP+ regulation. The trade benefits under GSP+ depend on progress in addressing various issues, including human rights, where tangible reforms remain essential,” stated Ambassador Skoog.
In meetings with key officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Law, Justice and Human Rights Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Federal Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Ambassador Skoog highlighted areas of concern. These included the application of blasphemy laws, women’s rights, forced marriages and conversions, enforced disappearances, freedom of expression, freedom of religion or belief, media independence, impunity for rights violations, due process, civic space, and the death penalty.
In a meeting with Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Yahya Afridi, discussions focused on judicial backlog and the integrity and independence of the judiciary. Throughout his visit, the EUSR acknowledged the vital role of the National Commission for Human Rights and emphasized the need to safeguard its independence.
Ahead of the upcoming GSP+ monitoring mission, Ambassador Skoog urged Pakistani authorities to ensure the implementation of all relevant international conventions.
As part of his itinerary, he also visited Lahore, where he met with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Punjab’s Minister for Minorities Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora. Additionally, he engaged with representatives of the Christian and Ahmadi communities to discuss issues related to freedom of religion or belief, protection of minority rights, and accountability for human rights violations.
The Special Representative plays a crucial role in implementing the EU’s human rights policy worldwide, promoting compliance with international humanitarian law, and supporting international criminal justice. His visit to Pakistan underscores the EU’s continued engagement in advocating for human rights and strengthening bilateral cooperation in this vital domain.
