Federal Minister Pledges Human Rights-Focused Reforms in Drug Policy at Islamabad Conference

Islamabad, At the Reimagining Justice Conference today, the Federal Minister for Law and Justice delivered a keynote address advocating for a human rights-centered approach to drug policy, emphasizing rehabilitation and the abolition of the death penalty for narcotics offenses. The conference, organized by Justice Project Pakistan, focused on aligning drug policy with public health and human rights standards.

According to Press Information Department, the inaugural session highlighted challenges identified in an OHCHR report regarding human rights in global drug policy enforcement. The Law Minister discussed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to reform drug policies, including amendments to the Anti-Narcotics Act that propose rehabilitation and probation aspects. These changes aim to ensure fair treatment in narcotics cases and reflect a shift towards more compassionate legal frameworks.

The Minister also confirmed ongoing consultations to abolish the death penalty in drug-related cases, aligning with broader human rights goals. He assured of Pakistan’s commitment to cooperate with international bodies like the UN and EU to enhance drug policy effectiveness. The conference continues to serve as a critical platform for dialogue among policymakers, civil society, and international organizations, striving for policy improvements that prioritize human rights.