Islamabad: On the occasion of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has issued a charter of demands to the Pakistani government, urging immediate action to address and criminalize the practice of enforced disappearances. The charter calls for the recovery and fair trial of victims, the criminalization of the practice, and the implementation of international conventions against such human rights violations.
According to Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, the charter outlines several key demands to the federal government. These include the prompt and safe recovery of all victims of enforced disappearances, presentation before the courts, and ensuring their legal rights under due process. The HRCP also calls for the passage of legislation specifically targeting enforced disappearances, ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, and holding accountable all parties involved in these human rights abuses.
The commission also seeks structural reforms, such as appointing a new chairperson and restructuring the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances to better meet the needs of victims’ families. It advocates for a transparent mechanism for these families to seek and receive reparations, and invites the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances to visit Pakistan and report their findings.
Furthermore, the HRCP emphasizes the need for the protection of victims’ families, ensuring they can safely exercise their rights to freedom of expression and assembly without interference.