e-4443 (Foreign affairs)

The Government of Canada believes that human rights are the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world. This is central to Canada’s Foreign Policy, but Canadians also consider it a key part of Canada’s identity as a country. The Government will continue to ensure that Canada remains a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values. In keeping with this approach, Canada supports free, fair, and inclusive electoral processes around the world and condemns any use of violence for political goals.

The Government of Canada is aware of the latest political and economic developments in Pakistan and continues to closely monitor the situation including legal proceedings, to receive regular updates, and to engage with the caretaker Government of Pakistan on concerns raised by civil society organizations and human rights defenders, including in the lead up to general elections announced for February 8, 2024.

Canada considers diplomacy, advocacy, and programming activities to be among the most effective ways of promoting democracy, human rights, and respect for the rule of law globally in Pakistan. In fact, the promotion and protection of democratic values, human rights and the rule of law are integral elements of Canada's foreign policy and key priorities for engagement in Pakistan. Canada continues to advance an inclusive approach to democracy, one that allows people of all groups to participate in decision-making processes and institutions that impact their lives.

Canadian officials engage with parties and individuals across the political spectrum in Pakistan. As part of Canada’s regular interactions with government officials and opposition parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Canadian officials request that all legal and democratic principles be upheld in a fair manner. Canadian officials continue to engage with the National Commission for Human Rights and relevant caretaker Ministers regarding former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other individuals incarcerated following May 9, 2023, including prison conditions, protection concerns, and ensuring due process and the use of military courts.

Global Affairs Canada officials regularly raise these topics with senior Pakistani government officials, opposition parties, and local and religious leaders, and the Government remains committed to monitoring issues of human rights and free and fair elections, on an ongoing basis, and engaging in productive conversations with the Government of Pakistan on these topics. Global Affairs Canada is also funding inclusive governance projects in Pakistan with an investment of $21 million over five years, which supports women’s political participation and leadership, works to improve the accountability of democratic processes, and to increase the capacity of government institutions. Canada also supports civil society in Pakistan through its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to fund locally implemented projects focused on advancing inclusive governance, human rights and the rule of law.