Islamabad, March 28: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the recent restrictions imposed on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Punjab province. These measures are seen as a sign of a democratic decline.
The HRCP’s report titled “Regulation or Restriction?” highlights the critical role that civil society organizations play in countering authoritarian tendencies in Pakistan. However, the government has enacted restrictive laws and policies that undermine their operations.
According to the report, NGOs are now required to obtain approvals at multiple levels for registration. This includes agreements with the Economic Affairs Division (EAD), no-objection certificates at the district level, and security clearances. Such requirements hinder the functioning of NGOs, leading to the suspension or shutdown of their programs.
The report further states, “These requirements have been complicated by the need for re-registration under the Provincial Charity Commission. This not only obstructs the scale and scope of NGO operations but also leads to the suspension or termination of essential human rights and democracy programs. Although the courts have occasionally provided relief, particularly by overturning the 2022 EAD policy, the lack of a proper legal framework respecting rights has allowed administrative interference to persist.”
During a seminar on the report’s findings, HRCP member Zeeshan Noel noted that Pakistan appears to be “slowly moving towards democratic decline.”
Meetings held in Lahore and Multan revealed that women-led organizations and minority groups are disproportionately affected by these restrictions. These groups face threats and harassment not only from government entities but also from non-state actors and extremist groups.
The HRCP has urged the Pakistani government to provide swift and accessible legal remedies for NGOs, enhance judicial oversight, and ensure the protection of human rights defenders.
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