French Ambassador Calls on Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Human Rights
Islamabad : Nicolas Galey, Ambassador of France, called on the Federal Minister for Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, to discuss cooperation in promoting and strengthening human rights in Pakistan.
The Minister highlighted recent improvements in the human rights landscape, noting a decline in rights-related violations and enhanced institutional responsiveness. The Ministry of Human Rights, in coordination with relevant departments, is actively working to strengthen legal protections and improve mechanisms for redress and accountability.
He underscored recent legislative reforms, including over 110 amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which aim to improve access to justice and reflect the government’s commitment to legal modernization and inclusive governance. The Minister also noted ongoing discussions on proposing life imprisonment for selected offences, demonstrating Pakistan’s alignment with evolving global human rights principles.
The Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the GSP+ framework, emphasizing its role in governance reforms, institutional strengthening and sustainable development. He highlighted the framework’s contribution to advancing human rights protections and aligning domestic legislation with international standards, as well as Pakistan’s recent election to the UN Human Rights Council, reflecting international confidence in the country’s constructive role.
The Minister further highlighted the work of Independent Commissions, including the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), National Commission for Rights of Children (NCRC), and the Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals. He pointed to the NCHR’s accreditation as an “A-status” institution by the UN-linked Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) as a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to international standards.
The Minister also noted the recent passage of the National Commission for Minorities Bill, which the French Ambassador welcomed as a positive step toward protecting minority rights. Addressing concerns regarding the misuse of laws, including the Blasphemy Law, the Minister emphasized the development of comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure forensic investigations, credible witness protection, and impartial legal processes to uphold justice and safeguard vulnerable communities.
The French Ambassador acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts and welcomed the positive advancements in legislation and institutional safeguards. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmed commitment from both sides to continue collaboration in promoting human rights, legal development, and inclusive policy reform.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
