The launch ceremony was attended by parliamentarians, diplomats, senior government officials, representatives of federal and provincial institutions, National Human Rights Institutions, civil society organizations, academia, development partners, United Nations agencies, and human rights defenders. The event marked the formal unveiling of the validated NAP-HR 2026, which builds upon the achievements of previous National Action Plans while addressing implementation gaps and emerging human rights priorities.

Addressing the gathering, Barrister Aqeel Malik, State Minister of State for Law & Justice, officially launched the National Action Plan on Human Rights (NAP-HR) 2026 and underscored the Government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every citizen. The Minister described the launch as an important milestone in strengthening Pakistan's human rights framework and reaffirming the Government's commitment to implementing concrete, measurable actions for the promotion and protection of human rights across the country.

"The National Action Plan on Human Rights 2026 demonstrates the Government's resolve to translate constitutional guarantees into practical and measurable actions. It provides a comprehensive framework to strengthen the protection and promotion of human rights while fulfilling Pakistan's national priorities and international human rights commitments," he said.

The Minister appreciated the contributions of federal ministries, provincial governments, NHRI’s, civil society organizations, academia, and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pakistan whose active participation and contribution enriched the consultative process leading to the finalization of the Action Plan.

Speaking on the occasion, Abdul Khalique Shaikh, Secretary, Ministry of Human Rights, highlighted that the NAP-HR 2026 is the outcome of an extensive nationwide consultative process led by the Ministry of Human Rights, involving stakeholders from all four provinces, regions, and federal institutions in collaboration with UNDP under the EU Haqooq-e-Pakistan Project. As the third iteration of Pakistan's National Action Plan on Human Rights, it comprises six thematic areas and 86 action points aimed at strengthening the country's human rights ecosystem.

He noted that the Action Plan focuses on legal and policy reforms and effective implementation; women's access to human rights; protection and inclusion of vulnerable groups including minorities, children, transgender persons, persons with disabilities and senior citizens; human rights education and awareness; institutional strengthening; and enhanced compliance with Pakistan's international human rights obligations. The Plan also introduces dedicated actions on digital rights, prisoners' rights, and the human rights implications of climate change, reflecting emerging national priorities.

Delivering the keynote address, H.E. Philipp-Oliver Gross, Charge d`Affairs, Delegation of the European Union to Pakistan, reaffirmed the European Union's continued partnership with Pakistan in strengthening democratic governance and human rights.

"Our cooperation, including under GSP+, is rooted in respect for fundamental rights. The National Action Plan on Human Rights 2026 provides a practical framework with clear responsibilities and measurable targets that will support effective implementation and accountability."

Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative, UNDP Pakistan, reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to supporting the Government of Pakistan in implementing the Action Plan.

"Human rights must evolve to respond to the realities people face today. This Action Plan reflects that vision, and UNDP remains committed to supporting the Ministry of Human Rights and its partners in translating this roadmap into meaningful improvements in people's lives."

The National Action Plan on Human Rights 2026 provides a coordinated implementation framework for federal ministries, provincial governments and relevant institutions to advance human rights across Pakistan through measurable actions, strengthened coordination, and effective monitoring mechanisms.

The Ministry of Human Rights reaffirmed its commitment to leading the implementation and monitoring of the NAP-HR 2026 in close collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure that the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution of Pakistan are effectively realized for every individual.