In a biennial review of Pakistan’s preferential trade status, the European Union (EU) has underscored issues related to enforced disappearances and shrinking media freedom. The ‘Fourth GSP Report’ highlighted persistent challenges in areas such as civil society space, freedom of speech, and media freedom, with little improvement noted since 2020.
While the report acknowledged “continuous progress” in women’s and children’s rights, transgender protection, environmental conservation, and good governance, it raised concerns about impunity in cases of enforced disappearances.
Released on Tuesday, the joint report by the European Commission and the European External Action Service monitors progress on 27 key international rules by countries benefiting from the GSP scheme. These rules encompass human rights, labor rights, environmental standards, and good governance.
The 2023 report, covering 2020-22, recognized legislative progress in Pakistan but highlighted a disturbing trend of violent attacks and unexplained disappearances affecting journalists. Online trolls were identified as actively launching targeted campaigns against critical individuals, leading to self-censorship among journalists.
The report extended concerns beyond the media, stating that political activists, human rights defenders, and elected representatives have faced curtailment of freedom of expression through various measures. A recommendation was made for Pakistan to facilitate a local branch of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
In October, Pakistan’s GSP+ status was extended until 2027, allowing duty-free or minimum duty on exports to the European market. Having enjoyed preferential trade since 2014, Pakistan has witnessed significant growth in exports and imports to the EU.
EU Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Riina Kionka emphasized the need for Pakistan to diversify exports and include value-added products to fully realize the potential of the GSP+ status.
