U.S. Statement at the Universal Periodic Review of Pakistan
42nd Session, January 30, 2023
As delivered by Ambassador Michèle Taylor
Thank you, Mr. President.
The United States welcomes the delegation from Pakistan and values our countries’ cooperation on the Human Rights Council. We express our deep condolences for the dozens of people killed in two transport accidents over the weekend, including many children.
We support Pakistan’s dedication to democratic processes and encourage Pakistan to comply with its obligations under international human rights law. We are particularly concerned about the treatment of, and abuses perpetrated against, women and girls, members of religious minority communities, journalists, and critics of the government.
In the spirit of constructive engagement, we recommend that Pakistan:
1. Repeal or amend blasphemy laws, and end other discriminatory laws used against members of the Ahmadi Muslim community and members of other religious minority communities.
2. End the extralegal use of force as well as use of enforced disappearances, especially against journalists.
3. Enforce and strengthen existing provincial laws and support national laws on child, early, and forced marriage of women and girls and hold violators accountable.
I thank you.