Islamabad: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Pakistan, Mr. Samuel Rizk, along with his delegation, called on the Federal Minister for Law and Justice and Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, in Islamabad today. Ms. Van Nguyen, Deputy Resident Representative, was also present during the meeting. The discussion 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 provided by UNDP Pakistan and the European Union in supporting Pakistan's efforts to enhance institutional, legislative, and policy frameworks for the promotion and protection of human rights across the country. He noted 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.
Both sides reviewed progress under the project's four major components, which include strengthening national human rights institutions, enhancing governmental human rights structures, integrating human rights education in higher education institutions, and advancing the business and human rights agenda in accordance with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
The Minister was apprised that 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 seeks 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.
Furthermore, the initiative aims to assist the Ministry in developing a Human Rights Due Diligence Framework, enhancing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and aligning 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 expressed appreciation to the European Union and UNDP for their continued partnership and joint efforts toward fostering an inclusive, equitable, and rights-based society, emphasizing Pakistan's resolve to further enhance cooperation for the promotion of human rights and sustainable development.