National People’s Assembly, Pakistan – Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP) (original) (raw)

Civil Society Issues Urgent Charter of Demands ahead of **SDG Anniversary, Calls for Action on Rights, Democracy, and Climate Justice

Ahead of the anniversary of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), civil society groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and representatives from marginalized communities across Pakistan gathered at the National People’s Assembly in Islamabad on September 12, 2024. United under a common cause, participants adopted a comprehensive People’s Charter of Demands, urging the government, political parties, and relevant stakeholders to take immediate action to address the growing challenges of human rights, democracy, and sustainable development in the country.

Download the Charter of Demands in National People’s Assembly, Pakistan

**Addressing Fundamental Freedoms

The Charter highlights an urgent call for the restoration and protection of fundamental freedoms in Pakistan, expressing deep concern over the deteriorating state of democracy and civic rights. It demands the repeal of restrictive laws curbing free speech and calls for greater protection of journalists, the right to peaceful assembly, and the independence of the press. Activists voiced concerns over the increasing use of cybercrime laws to stifle dissent and called for legislative reforms to guarantee that all citizens, especially human rights defenders, can express their views freely.

**Advocating for Vulnerable Groups

Participants emphasized the need for stronger protections for vulnerable groups, including women, children, transgender individuals, and persons with disabilities. The Charter calls for the enforcement of laws aimed at preventing gender-based violence, child exploitation, and discrimination against transgender communities. Representatives urged the government to fully implement the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018, and ensure inclusive access to education, healthcare, and employment for all, regardless of gender or ability.

Recognizing Pakistan’s health system’s limitations, civil society groups demanded an expansion of universal healthcare coverage, with particular attention to maternal and child health services and mental health support. The Charter also underscores the necessity for affordable and quality healthcare for all citizens, especially those from marginalized communities. Additionally, it calls for increased funding for rehabilitation services and assistive technology for persons with disabilities.

The Charter extends demands for inclusive social protection programs targeting the poorest and most vulnerable populations, including women and the elderly, alongside calls for equitable economic policies that promote fair wages, social justice, and labor rights for workers in the informal sector.

**Climate Justice and Environmental Sustainability

With Pakistan on the frontlines of climate change, the Charter makes an urgent appeal for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies that prioritize the most affected communities, including women, children, older persons, and people with disabilities. The civil society groups also called for robust enforcement of environmental protection laws to curb deforestation, pollution, and unsustainable land use practices.

**Reforming the Legal and Justice System

Another core demand includes reforms to Pakistan’s legal system to ensure that justice is quick, fair, and accessible for all. The Charter emphasizes the need for judicial independence and an end to political interference in legal proceedings. In a broader call for accountability, the document insists on transparent governance and anti-corruption measures to improve public trust in government operations.

**Demands for Good Governance and International Cooperation

Civil society groups also urged the Pakistani government to work with international financial institutions for fair debt restructuring and increased development aid aligned with the SDGs. Participants highlighted the need for reforms to ensure transparent management of public funds and greater civic participation in governance, with more avenues for citizen involvement in decision-making processes at all levels.

**A Collective Call for Change

The People’s Charter of Demands reflects the collective aspirations of Pakistan’s civil society for a just, equitable, and democratic future. It serves as a reminder of the slow progress on the SDGs and the urgency of addressing human rights concerns, social justice, and environmental sustainability. The Assembly participants urged the government, civil society, and the international community to take immediate action in responding to these demands, ensuring that Pakistan moves towards a future where the rights of all citizens are protected.

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