UN Criticizes Pakistan’s Use of Military Courts for Civilians
The United Nations Human Rights Committee has raised concerns about Pakistan’s use of military courts to try civilians. The Committee urged Pakistan to reform its judicial system to align with international human rights standards. It emphasized that military courts should not impose death penalties and that all legal proceedings should comply with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) to ensure fair trials.
Following a review in Geneva, the UN panel expressed concern over the Pakistan Army Act, 1952, which allows military courts to try civilians. Reports indicate a high conviction rate from 2015 to 2019, with many cases resulting in death sentences. The Committee called for the release of civilians detained under military jurisdiction and highlighted the need for transparent consultations with judges, lawyers, and civil society groups to maintain judicial independence.
The Committee also noted reports of harassment and threats against judges and prosecutors, particularly in cases involving corruption, terrorism, and blasphemy. It criticized Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act for allowing authorities to access personal data without oversight and urged the establishment of a data protection law.
Additionally, the Committee recommended reforms to Pakistan’s freedom of movement policies and called for clear legal definitions and penalties for enforced disappearances. It acknowledged the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act 2021 but highlighted ongoing issues of harassment and violence against journalists and human rights defenders. The Committee urged Pakistan to end restrictions on freedom of expression and ensure media independence.
Doubts Revealed
UN -: The UN, or United Nations, is an international organization that works to maintain peace and security around the world. It also promotes human rights and helps countries work together to solve global problems.
Military Courts -: Military courts are special courts used to try members of the armed forces. In some countries, they are also used to try civilians, which can be controversial because they may not follow the same rules as regular courts.
Civilians -: Civilians are people who are not part of the military or armed forces. They are regular citizens like you and me.
Judicial Independence -: Judicial independence means that judges and courts are free to make decisions without being influenced by the government or other powerful groups. This is important for fair trials.
Data Privacy Laws -: Data privacy laws are rules that protect people’s personal information from being misused or shared without their permission. These laws help keep our information safe online and offline.
Freedom of Movement and Expression -: Freedom of movement means people can travel freely within their country and to other countries. Freedom of expression means people can speak their minds and share their ideas without fear of punishment.
Enforced Disappearances -: Enforced disappearances happen when people are secretly taken away by authorities or groups, and their whereabouts are kept hidden. This is a serious human rights violation.
Human Rights Defenders -: Human rights defenders are people who work to protect and promote human rights. They often face risks and challenges because of their work.