Islamabad: H.E. Mr. Nicolas Galey, Ambassador of France to Pakistan, called on the Federal Minister for Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, to discuss avenues for strengthened cooperation in advancing human rights across Pakistan.
The Minister briefed the Ambassador on the country's improved human rights landscape, noting a decline in rights-related violations and increased institutional responsiveness. He said the Ministry of Human Rights, in partnership with relevant departments, is working to bolster legal protections and enhance mechanisms for accountability and redress.
Senator Tarar highlighted recent legislative reforms, including more than 110 amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), aimed at expanding access to justice and reflecting the government's commitment to legal modernization and inclusive governance. He also mentioned ongoing discussions on introducing life imprisonment for select offences, signalling Pakistan's alignment with evolving global human rights norms.
Reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to the GSP+ framework, the Minister underscored its role in governance reforms, institutional strengthening, and sustainable development. He noted that the framework has helped advance human rights protections and bring domestic legislation in line with international obligations. He further highlighted Pakistan's recent election to the UN Human Rights Council as evidence of international trust in the country's constructive engagement.
The Minister also pointed to the strengthened role of independent bodies, including the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), National Commission for the Rights of Children (NCRC), and the Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals. He emphasized the NCHR's 'A-status' accreditation by the UN-linked Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) as a milestone reflecting adherence to global standards.
Senator Tarar briefed the Ambassador on the passage of the National Commission for Minorities Bill, welcomed by France as a positive step for minority protection. He addressed concerns about the misuse of various laws, including those related to blasphemy, noting that comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are being developed to ensure forensic investigations, witness protection, and impartial legal processes to safeguard vulnerable groups.
The French Ambassador appreciated Pakistan's progress in legislative and institutional reforms and welcomed these positive developments. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both sides to continue working together to strengthen human rights, support legal advancements, and promote inclusive policy reforms.