Islamabad, (TW News) – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), under the Huqooq-e-Pakistan II project funded by the European Union (EU), supported the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) in hosting an end-of-term event to mark the Commission’s four-year tenure.

The event, titled Impact Through Courage – Four Years of Serving Pakistan, brought together over 100 representatives from the government, the diplomatic community, international organizations, and civil society to reflect on the NCHR’s evolution to an internationally recognized national human rights institution, its contributions to human rights protection in Pakistan, and the road ahead.

“The NCHR stands today as one of Pakistan’s most credible and respected public institutions,” said Dr. Samuel Rizk, UNDP Resident Representative in Pakistan. “It has shown that human rights work is not just an office to hold or a job to do, it is a conscientious commitment. UNDP is proud to have walked this path with the Commission, and we remain committed to supporting its continuity so it can keep advancing human rights protections across the country.”

In a detailed presentation, NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha outlined how the Commission evolved over the last four years. Key achievements included increased engagement with international obligations – including achieving A-status accreditation by GANHRI – strengthening oversight of prisons, torture and juvenile justice, and extensive work on the rights of women, minorities and other vulnerable groups. Through these efforts, the Commission has contributed to documenting violations, informing policy debates, and expanding avenues for redress to those whose rights are at risk.

“These four years have shown us that when an institution stands firmly on principle and courage, meaningful change becomes possible,” said the Chairperson. “We rebuilt systems, strengthened oversight, and centered the experiences of people whose rights are too often overlooked. Today is not just a celebration of institutional progress, but of every survivor, every community, and every partner who trusted us with their stories. Their resilience has shaped the Commission’s journey.”

The event also featured a curated visual exhibition tracing the NCHR’s work on specific thematic areas, including the rights of women, prisoners, and minorities, as well as labor rights, and the inclusion of mental health as a fundamental right. Exhibition panels combined case studies with statistics to showcase concrete impact on the ground.

Speaking on behalf of the EU, Philipp Oliver Gross, Deputy Head of Mission, said: “The EU is proud to support the NCHR and Pakistan’s broader human rights commitments, including under GSP+. The Commission’s progress over these years shows how strong oversight institutions can help safeguard fundamental rights and give a voice to those who are often unheard.”

Speakers underlined that the NCHR’s importance extends beyond its legal mandate to its role in bringing people’s experiences into policy and institutional reform. By visiting prisons, hearing complaints, engaging communities, and advising on legislation, the Commission has helped surface systemic issues, highlight gaps in protection and support more inclusive, rights-based governance.

“As the Ministry responsible for human rights, we see the Commission as a vital constitutional body that widens the state’s ability to correct its own course,” said Abdul Khalique Shaikh, Secretary of the Ministry of Human Rights. “Its independence allows it to raise concerns directly. Its collaboration with the Government of Pakistan allows us to move towards solutions. This balance is essential, and we value it.”

Looking ahead, the gains made over the past four years depend on continuity. The timely appointment of the next Chairperson and Members will be critical to preserving momentum for national initiatives, sustaining Pakistan’s compliance with international human rights commitments, and ensuring that reforms translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives, to leave no one behind.