Islamabad: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has released its annual report detailing significant challenges to freedom of expression and the rule of law in the country throughout 2025. The report, titled "State of Human Rights in 2025," underscores the contraction of civic space and increasing insecurity as key issues of concern.
According to HRCP, the past year saw a notable suppression of the right to freedom of expression, impacting the ability to question authority and demand accountability. Legal frameworks, including amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and the misuse of sedition and anti-terrorism laws, were reportedly employed to target journalists, activists, and political figures. This environment of intimidation and self-censorship, coupled with reports of enforced disappearances and movement restrictions, has stifled public discourse and obscured human rights violations.
The report also highlights amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, which have expanded powers for detaining individuals without charge, thereby threatening fundamental rights. Additionally, the passage of the 27th Constitutional Amendment has raised concerns about judicial independence, as it redefined judicial appointments and increased executive influence over the judiciary. Key court decisions have been criticized for narrowing democratic space, particularly affecting the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) party.
Security issues, including militancy and counterterrorism operations, have further exacerbated human rights challenges, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The report documents ongoing enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and violence against vulnerable groups without adequate redress. Environmental disasters in regions like Gilgit-Baltistan have also highlighted insufficient governmental response and infrastructure.
Despite these challenges, the report acknowledges some progress, such as the enactment of the National Commission for Minorities Act and advancements in child rights legislation. Additionally, higher court rulings have supported women's rights, and provincial welfare initiatives have offered incremental relief.
The report was presented by HRCP Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt, alongside former chairperson Hina Jilani, co-chair Munizae Jahangir, vice-chair Nasreen Azhar, and secretary-general Harris Khalique, who addressed questions from the press regarding the findings.