The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Pakistan, Mr. Samuel Rizk, along with his delegation, called on the Federal Minister for Law & Justice and Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, in Islamabad today. Ms. Van Nguyen, Deputy Resident Representative, was also present during the meeting.
The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the Ministry of Human Rights, UNDP, and the European Union to further advance Pakistan’s human rights agenda.
The Minister appreciated the continued partnership and technical assistance extended by UNDP Pakistan and the European Union in supporting Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen institutional, legislative, and policy frameworks for the promotion and protection of human rights across the country. He highlighted that the Huqooq-e-Pakistan II project reflects the Government of Pakistan’s firm commitment to advancing human rights in line with constitutional guarantees and international obligations.
During the meeting, both sides discussed progress under the project’s four major areas, including the strengthening of national human rights institutions, enhancement of governmental human rights structures, integration of human rights education in higher education institutions and advancement of the business and human rights agenda in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
The Minister was apprised that under the project, efforts are underway to upgrade the Human Rights Information Management System (HRIMS) and strengthen the National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting, and Follow-up (NMIRF) to ensure Pakistan’s effective compliance with international treaty body obligations. The project also aims to reinforce the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP-BHR) by promoting responsible business conduct, gender equality, and sustainability within the private sector.
It will further assist the Ministry in developing a Human Rights Due Diligence Framework, enhancing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and ensuring alignment of national standards with international commitments and GSP+ compliance requirements.
Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing human rights through policy reforms, institutional strengthening, and public awareness initiatives. He appreciated the European Union and UNDP for their continued partnership and mutual efforts toward building an inclusive, equitable, and rights-based society, emphasizing the resolve to further enhance cooperation for the promotion of human rights and sustainable development in Pakistan.
