Pakistan

The National Assembly passed legislation on 17 January to further strengthen the country's strict blasphemy law, increasing the punishment in cases of those insulting the Holy Prophet and his companions from 3 to 10 years, extendable up to life imprisonment. The bill also suggests hefty fines and making it a non-bailable offence. Human rights activists have expressed deep concern over how the law might be weaponized to increase the persecution of religious minorities.

Freedom of Expression Freedom of Religion

On 3 November, Imran Khan, former Prime Minister and opposition leader, was shot in the leg at a protest rally. A person was killed and at least 10 others were injured in the attack. Police arrested the gunman at the scene and are investigating the case as a lone shooter, but Khan has accused the current government of conspiring to assassinate him. Khan has been leading a nationwide protest against the government, calling for early elections. He announced that his party, Tehreek-e-Insaf, will quit all regional and national assemblies. His protest movement has further polarized the Pakistani electorate and added to the country's political instability at a time of ecological and economic crisis. 

Protests Imran Khan Freedom of Association and Assembly Political Violence Assassination

Pakistan's election commission disqualified former prime minister Imran Khan from holding public office on 21 October following accusations that he incorrectly declared his assets and illegally sold state gifts. Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party alleges the decision is politically motivated and  will challenge it in Islamabad's high court. Mr Khan called on his supporters to protest the decision outside of Islamabad, although these came to a halt when police began firing tear gas to disperse crowds. The decision is expected to escalate political tensions amid Khan's long-promised march to Islamabad, challenging the government of his successor and calling for snap elections. 

Protests Imran Khan Elections Electoral Management Body Corruption

Unprecedented monsoon floods have killed at least 1596 people and submerged a third of the country. Beyond climate change, experts indicate that several factors compounded the devastation, pointing to years of delayed action and structural failures of the government in protecting people living in flood-prone areas. Inadequate infrastructure and outdated drainage systems, as well as corruption and improper water management systems, are said to have fuelled the crisis leading to the poorest classes getting hit the hardest. The government is now taking measures to combat the outbreak of water-borne diseases caused by contaminated water sources. 

Personal Integrity and Security Climate Change Natural Disaster