The European Union has warned Pakistan to take faster and stronger steps to implement GSP+ conventions. The EU ambassador said Pakistan must show clear progress before the next monitoring mission. He stressed that continued trade benefits depend on credible improvements in human rights and governance.
The EU ambassador to Pakistan said the country must do more to meet its GSP+ commitments. He noted that the upcoming monitoring mission will examine compliance with 27 international conventions. These include human rights, labour rights, environmental protection, and good governance. He added that the mission will hold meetings with officials, civil society, companies, and workers. Moreover, he warned that Pakistan’s progress will shape the final report and future decisions.
The ambassador said the current mission may be the last under the existing GSP+ scheme. He explained that a new framework will likely start in 2027, requiring Pakistan to reapply. He also stated that the EU already raised key concerns with Pakistani authorities. These concerns include enforced disappearances, blasphemy laws, minority rights, women’s rights, child labour, and forced labour. He stressed that some progress exists but more action is essential.
He highlighted enforced disappearances as a major EU priority and said many questions remain unanswered. He noted that Pakistan formed a commission to investigate such cases. However, he said the EU will assess if these steps are sufficient. He also commented on judicial independence and said the EU is gathering views from political parties, think tanks, and civil society. Additionally, he mentioned concerns about trying civilians in military courts.
Former EU officials also shared serious concerns about Pakistan’s human rights situation. They said the environment for rights defenders and activists has worsened in recent years. They argued that governance and environmental areas show progress. However, they stressed that labour rights need stronger reforms. They added that human rights remain the biggest challenge for Pakistan under GSP+.
EU representatives warned Pakistan not to assume that its GSP+ status is secure. They urged the government to end the use of military courts for civilian cases. They also called for greater protection for free expression. They said the upcoming GSP+ review will closely examine Pakistan’s plans and actions. Finally, they stressed that trade concessions depend on genuine and visible progress on core values.