Samuel Rizk, the UNDP Resident Representative in Pakistan, accompanied by Deputy Resident Representative Van Nguyen, met with Federal Minister for Law, Justice and Human Rights Senator Azam Nazir Tarrar in Islamabad on 5 November 2025 to discuss stepping up cooperation on human rights priorities. UNDP Pakistan reaffirmed its support for strengthening institutional capacity and technical systems that underpin rights protection across the country.
The meeting focused on consolidating collaboration between the Ministry of Human Rights, UNDP Pakistan and the European Union to implement the Rights of Pakistan II project, a programme described by the federal minister as a clear reflection of the government’s commitment to constitutional guarantees and international obligations. Participants highlighted the project as a platform to accelerate reforms and policy action on human rights.
Officials reviewed progress across the project’s four core components: strengthening national human rights institutions, improving the government human rights architecture, expanding human rights education in higher education institutions, and advancing the business and human rights agenda in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. UNDP Pakistan underscored the need to align national measures with international norms to improve implementation and accountability.
The delegation outlined plans to modernize the Human Rights Information Management System (HRIMS) and to reinforce the National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-up (NMIRF) so Pakistan can meet treaty obligations more effectively. Discussion also covered consolidation of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP-BHR) to promote responsible private sector conduct, gender equality and sustainability.
As part of technical assistance, UNDP Pakistan will support development of a Human Rights Due Diligence Framework, bolster monitoring and evaluation systems, and harmonize national standards with international commitments and GSP+ requirements. These measures aim to improve reporting, oversight and practical outcomes for rights holders across Pakistan.
Senator Azam Nazir Tarrar reiterated the ministry’s resolve to strengthen human rights protection through policy reform, institutional capacity building and public awareness, and welcomed sustained cooperation with the European Union and UNDP Pakistan. He expressed hope that the partnership will further advance human rights, social justice and sustainable development in the country.
