Belgium, Pakistan Reinforce Legal & Human Rights Cooperation in High-Level Meeting
Islamabad – His Excellency Idesbald Van der Gracht, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Pakistan, held a pivotal meeting with Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Law & Justice and Human Rights, to bolster bilateral ties and advance shared commitments to legal reforms and human rights protections.
Progress on Human Rights & Legal Reforms
The discussions highlighted Pakistan’s improved human rights landscape, with Senator Tarar noting a “marked decline in violations” and enhanced institutional responsiveness. He underscored the government’s proactive measures, including over 110 amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to streamline justice delivery for citizens.
A landmark achievement, the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2025, which sets 18 as the uniform marriage age for both genders, was hailed as a critical stride toward aligning with international child rights standards. The Minister emphasized efforts to replicate this reform nationwide.
Addressing Data Gaps & Gender Disparities
Responding to the Global Gender Gap Report 2025, Senator Tarar raised concerns over methodological limitations skewing Pakistan’s progress metrics. The Ministry is collaborating with stakeholders to refine data collection, ensuring future reports reflect on-ground advancements in women’s empowerment and social inclusion.
Death Penalty Review & Minority Rights
The Minister revealed parliamentary deliberations on replacing capital punishment with life imprisonment for certain offences—a potential shift toward global human rights norms. Ambassador Van der Gracht commended Pakistan’s National Commission for Minority Rights Act, 2025, calling it a “significant safeguard” for religious minorities.
Mutual Commitment to Future Collaboration
Both sides agreed to deepen cooperation in governance, justice, and social equity. Belgium pledged support for Pakistan’s democratic strengthening, while Pakistan welcomed knowledge-sharing in legal modernization.
“Our partnership reflects a shared vision for inclusive development,” stated Ambassador Van der Gracht, as Senator Tarar affirmed, “Reforms will continue with global best practices in mind.”
BY: The Times Union
