Securing Civil and Political Rights in Pakistan

Executive Summary Civil and political rights are sometimes referred to as negative rights, requiring a hands-off approach from the state. The present brief challenges this assumption and explains how these rights entail positive measures. The brief also attempts to unravel the relationship of civil and political rights with democracy, development and local cultures. Selected policy issues are discussed in the light of Pakistan's obligations under the 1973 Constitution and international human rights law. Across all selected policy areas, the approach articulated in the brief contends that as embodiments of basic principles of freedom, equality and human dignity, civil and political rights must take precedence above political and strategic considerations.