HYDERABAD: Chairperson of Sindh Human Rights Commission Paid Tribute to Asma Jahangir iconic Human Rights Defender at the 3rd Asma Jahangir Conference while narrating her contribution at national and international level particularly UN Special Rapporteur while Emphasizes the Need for Empowered Youth, Particularly Female Lawyers, in Human Rights Advocacy. In a profound tribute to the iconic human rights defender Asma Jahangir, the Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), led by its Chairperson Iqbal Ahmed Detho, commemorated her legacy at the 3rd Asma Jahangir Conference on Effective Advocacy for Human Rights. News Desk
The conference gathered Human Rights activists, legal experts and young advocates to celebrate Asma Jahangir’s contributions and discuss pressing human rights challenges in Sindh.
During his address, Mr. Detho lauded Asma Jahangir’s tireless commitment to justice on both local and international stages. “Asma Jahangir’s advocacy remains a guiding light for Pakistan’s youth and emerging human rights defenders,” he remarked. He emphasized that her legacy inspires future generations, especially young female lawyers, to actively participate in the pursuit of justice and equality.
Mr. Detho highlighted current global human rights crises, particularly in conflict zones ranging from Middle East to South Asia and underscored the role of international institutions like the International Court of Justice and International Criminal court to address the issues of Genocide,War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity.Citing the limitations of existing international legal frameworks and institutions to end impunity of human Rights violations in adequately addressing war crimes and severe human rights violations, he called for strengthened judicial systems and more effective international courts to ensure justice worldwide.
The Chairperson stressed the critical role and encouraged young advocates, particularly female lawyers, to familiarize themselves with both their fundamental and human rights, continuing the work pioneered by Asma Jahangir.
To cultivate this knowledge, Mr. Detho highlighted SHRC’s initiatives, including targeted training on human rights education and amended laws for newly appointed civil judges and judicial magistrates. And refresher courses for serving ones..The Commission has also launched an internship program for young law students, providing them with hands-on experience in human rights advocacy.
Reflecting on the evolution of human rights, Mr. Detho explained that civil and political rights, termed “Blue Rights,” were the initial set of rights recognized by Pakistan’s Constitution. The subsequent generations of rights encompass socio-economic rights termed as “ Red Rights”, environmental and Development rights as “ Green Rights” and the emerging “Pink Rights,” addressing inclusivity, equity and reproductive health rights .Mr. Detho underscored that while health, water, and a high quality of life are yet to be recognized as fundamental rights in Pakistan, the SHRC is committed to advocating for these essential protections.
Mr. Detho’s speech was a powerful call to action for youth involvement in human rights advocacy, paying homage to Asma Jahangir’s vision for a just and equitable society. The event serves as a tribute to her legacy, honoring her lifelong dedication to human rights and justice.
