ISLAMABAD: The European Union has reminded Pakistan that its trade benefits under the GSP+ scheme depend on progress in key areas, including human rights.
The EU mission in Islamabad issued the statement on Friday, stressing that “tangible” reforms remain essential.
The warning followed a visit by Ambassador Olof Skoog, the EU’s Special Representative for Human Rights. During his trip, he engaged with Pakistani officials on human and labor rights and discussed the country’s plans to address these issues. His visit comes amid an ongoing EU assessment of Pakistan’s compliance with GSP+ requirements.
The GSP+ scheme grants duty-free access to the European market for exports from beneficiary countries. In return, they must implement 27 international conventions on human and civil rights.
Concerns over Pakistan’s human rights record have put its GSP+ status at risk. Last month, the EU criticized Pakistan for sentencing over 80 civilians in military courts for their alleged involvement in anti-government riots in May 2023.
The EU called the move “inconsistent” with Pakistan’s international obligations. This week, the country faced further scrutiny after passing a controversial cybercrime law. Journalists and rights activists argue the law targets dissent on social media. The government denies the claim.
“As we approach the midterm of the current monitoring cycle, we encourage Pakistan to continue its reform path as it prepares for reapplication under the upcoming new GSP+ regulation,” the EU mission said.
“The trade benefits under GSP+ depend on the progress made on addressing a list of issues, including on human rights, and tangible reforms remain essential.”
During his meetings with senior officials, including the deputy prime minister, information minister, chief justice, and military leaders, Skoog raised concerns about blasphemy laws, women’s rights, forced marriages, and enforced disappearances. He also discussed press freedom, religious rights, judicial independence, due process, and the right to a fair trial.
Pakistan has been the largest beneficiary of GSP+ in recent years. Since the scheme’s launch in 2014, its exports to the EU have risen by 108 percent.
In October 2023, the EU extended the GSP+ scheme until 2027 for developing countries, including Pakistan. However, future trade benefits will depend on Pakistan’s commitment to key reforms.
