Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to Human Rights on International Day

President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday marked International Human Rights Day, reiterating Pakistan's dedication to safeguarding and promoting human rights in line with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Islamic principles. Emphasizing the importance of inclusive development, transparency, and civic engagement, the President underscored the need for bridging the development gap across the country.

In a statement, President Zardari drew attention to the challenges faced by various marginalized groups, including women, children, seniors, persons with disabilities, and minorities, emphasizing the necessity of protecting their rights. He emphasized the interconnection between democracy, peace, freedom, and human rights, urging the international community to take concrete steps to end atrocities in areas such as Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Gaza, and Israeli occupied territories.

Pakistan faces significant development challenges, including economic inequality, climate vulnerability, and social exclusion, ranking 164th out of 193 in human development with an unaddressed gender equality gap. To address these issues, Pakistan must adopt an inclusive development model prioritizing the empowerment of its people and their well-being. This entails bridging the digital divide, safeguarding environmental ecosystems, and strengthening governance and institutions.

The government faces an uphill task in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to a significant financing gap of $348 billion by 2030. To bridge this gap, the government needs to focus on initiating economic reforms, investing in renewable energy, and developing innovative financial instruments. Ensuring education, employment, digital inclusion, and rehabilitation, the government is tasked with transforming the lives of its youth and marginalized groups is essential to accelerating development in Pakistan.

Pakistan's commitment to promoting and protecting human rights on International Human Rights Day serves as a strong testament to its development aspirations. While challenges lie ahead, what is clear is that pioneering inclusive development and ensuring human rights will play an integral role in shaping the country's future; laying the groundwork for a progression post COVID as rapidly as possible.