In a powerful show of unity and urgency, the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), in partnership with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched a pivotal two-day national conference in Islamabad titled: “From Promise to Action: Advancing SDG 16 for Justice and Reform.” This gathering is not just a dialogue—it’s a decisive push toward reshaping Pakistan’s criminal justice system in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Held in the heart of the capital, the event brings together a rare confluence of stakeholders: senior government officials, human rights experts, judges, legal professionals, and civil society representatives. Their collective goal? To identify tangible, inclusive, and actionable reforms in three key areas: law enforcement, judiciary, and the penal system.
Pakistan is at a turning point. With the recent A-status accreditation of the NCHR—meeting a crucial indicator under SDG 16.A.1—momentum is building for systemic justice reform. The stakes are high: an outdated justice system, prolonged legal delays, and unequal access to legal representation have long hindered marginalized groups, including women, minorities, and juveniles.
This conference signals a move from promises made to promises kept. It’s about bridging policy with implementation—making laws work for the people they were designed to protect.
“Governments alone cannot create justice. Civil society alone cannot ensure accountability. Donors alone cannot reform institutions. But together, we can dismantle barriers to justice,” said NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha, capturing the conference’s collaborative ethos.
Dr. Riina Kionka, Ambassador of the European Union, praised Pakistan’s efforts, noting that human rights institutions like the NCHR are vital for global accountability.
“The real measure of our commitment to human rights lies not in our words, but in the impact of our actions,” she said, emphasizing the EU’s long-term support.
The conference also ties into international commitments such as the EU’s GSP+ Scheme, which provides trade incentives for countries that adhere to international human rights conventions. Pakistan’s ability to uphold justice reform isn’t just a domestic matter—it carries geopolitical and economic implications as well.
One of the most promising themes to emerge from the discussions is the use of digital tools to increase efficiency and inclusivity in the justice system.
Dr. Samuel Rizk, UNDP’s Resident Representative in Pakistan, highlighted the transformative potential of innovation:
“Virtual courts, digital case management, and online legal aid are no longer optional—they are essential.”
He pointed to the success in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where virtual court implementation led to a 130% increase in hearings this year alone. These kinds of scalable digital solutions can dramatically reduce case backlogs, especially in remote areas where traditional courts are inaccessible.
Justice is not truly just unless it includes everyone, regardless of religion, background, or economic status.
Kesoo Mal Kheal Das, Minister of State for Interfaith Harmony, stated powerfully:
“True justice is not merely the absence of crime or punishment, but the presence of fairness, the protection of human dignity, and the guarantee of equal rights for all.”
This theme of inclusivity is woven throughout the conference, with targeted sub-working groups focusing on vulnerable communities. Panel discussions are diving into urgent issues such as:
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Pre-trial detention and overcrowded prisons
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Systemic legal delays
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Gender and minority-based discrimination
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Lack of access to quality legal aid
This is more than just a conference—it’s a national moment of reflection and redirection. With the joint support of the EU, UNDP, and Huqooq-e-Pakistan II, the NCHR is positioning itself as a central driver of justice transformation in Pakistan.
If sustained, this initiative could redefine how justice is accessed, delivered, and perceived across the country. More importantly, it could turn Pakistan into a regional leader in rights-based legal reform, powered by digital innovation and rooted in equity.
