Pakistan - Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Treaty

This report examines Pakistan’s obligations under the International Covenant for Civil and Political Rights, highlighting systemic barriers to civic participation. Despite its constitutional commitments to democracy, gender discrimination, electoral manipulation, and political repression undermine fundamental rights.

Key concerns include (1) cultural and legal restrictions limiting female voter participation and civic engagement; (2) lack of civic education, preventing informed political participation among youth and marginalised groups; (3) political violence, voter intimidation, and suppression of opposition parties weakening democratic integrity; (4) media censorship and extrajudicial actions restricting free speech; and (5) electoral corruption, including the jailing of opposition leaders, eroding electoral credibility.

This report urges Pakistan to enforce gender-inclusive voting laws, implement civic education reforms, safeguard free speech, prevent election-related violence, and ensure fair electoral processes to uphold its ICCPR commitments.