U.S. Statement at the Universal Periodic Review of Pakistan on Human Rights

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We note with concern the enforcement of blasphemy laws, and restrictions against Ahmadi Muslims, and the use of blasphemy and other laws to intimidate political opponents and settle personal disputes.

Times of Ahmad | News Watch | US Desk
Source/Credit: US State Dept
By Web Desk | November 14, 2017

As delivered by Jesse Bernstein
Delegation of the United States of America
28th Session,
Geneva, November 13, 2017

Thank you Mr. President.

The United States welcomes the Pakistani delegation to the UPR Working Group and recommends that Pakistan:

1. Repeal blasphemy laws and restrictions and end their use against Ahmadi Muslims and others and grant the visit request of the UN Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Expression.
2. Pass an anti-trafficking law that prohibits and penalizes all forms of human trafficking.
3. Undertake, track and report the investigation and prosecution of security forces who commit human rights violations and abuses.

We commend Pakistan for passing the Hindu Marriage Act, which allows, for the first time, members of the Hindu community to register their marriages.  We note increased investigations, prosecutions, and convictions for sex trafficking, and passage of anti-honor killing and anti-rape laws which, if enforced, should reduce violence against women and girls.

We note with concern the enforcement of blasphemy laws, and restrictions against Ahmadi Muslims, and the use of blasphemy and other laws to intimidate political opponents and settle personal disputes.

Finally, we are also concerned about the International NGOs policy restricting operations of non-violent organizations.

(end statement)


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