Parliament And Human Rights

Parliament And Human Rights.

Parliament is the forum that determines the human rights enjoyed by the people of a country and how those rights are protected.

Introduction

Parliament is at the heart of democratic governance and has a vital role in protecting fundamental rights, shaping rights-based laws, and holding government accountable.

As the institution representing the people, Parliament can translate citizens’ needs and aspirations into effective legislation and public policy. Through legislation, oversight, representation and public accountability, a strong and responsive Parliament strengthens the rule of law and ensures that governance serves the rights and interests of all citizens.

PCHR works to place human rights at the centre of parliamentary legislation, oversight and policymaking—strengthening the connection between Parliament, government and citizens.

Pakistan’s Case

Using Parliamentary practices such as questions, call attention notices, adjournment motions and resolutions, to draw Government’s attention to Human Rights issues.

Enhancing legislation for the protection of Human Rights, by presenting private member bills, suggesting amendments and participating in the drafting of bills and in Parliamentary debates.

Conducting consultation with national and international experts and organizations to ensure that the parliamentarians are guided by all available expertise in the area of Human Rights.

Operating a citizens complaint cell where the parliamentarians themselves receive and respond to people’s complaints of rights violations.

Conducting research on various Human Rights issues and documenting the same.

Holding the Government organizations accountable for the grievances for which they may be responsible.

Participating in the security of public institutions with Human Rights responsibilities such as prison, police etc.

Publishing reports on all aspects of Human Rights and the Commission’s contribution towards their protection and promotion.

Conducting on the spot investigations of Human Rights violations and publishing the results.

Operating a secretariat to support all aspects of the Commission’s work.

Liaising with the relevant regional and international organizations.

Role Of Parliamentarians

Parliamentarians play four interconnected roles that are fundamental to democratic governance and the protection of human rights:

Representatives — giving voice to citizens and communities and ensuring their concerns shape public policy.

Legislators — developing, amending and strengthening laws and policies that protect rights and promote equality and justice.

Oversight Actors — scrutinising government performance, promoting transparency and holding the executive accountable.

Agents of Social Change — using their public influence to promote social progress, strengthen democratic institutions and respond to emerging challenges.

Across all four roles, significant gaps remain in translating constitutional rights and international commitments into effective laws, accountable institutions and meaningful protection for citizens. PCHR, thus works with parliamentarians and other stakeholders to help close these gaps.

As Public Representatives

As representatives, parliamentarians are entrusted with the responsibility to be the voice of the people. Their first role is to bring to the attention of the legislature both the achievements and shortfalls of executive action; to challenge laws that no longer serve society; and to ensure parliament responds to the needs and aspirations of the people they represent - championing pro-people legislation that delivers justice.

As Legislators

Their most important role is the passing of laws. Modern parliamentary preferences include changing existing legislation, the repeal of acts and making fundamental and far-reaching reforms. Effective lawmaking matters because it not only affirms the rule of law but also reaffirms a sound and just legal order in which fundamental rights are enshrined.

As Scrutinisers / Monitors

It is parliamentarians who scrutinise and monitor the executive through important questions and motions. To do this effectively, parliamentarians must have access to information, legislative expertise, and resources of research and analysis. The strength of any government depends on how openly and effectively it is held to account.

As Social Reformers

We are also a body relying on respected institutions to dispel beliefs supporting unfundamental rights enjoyed by the citizens. By transforming public opinion they pave the way for new and progressive laws — convincing constituents that society's well-being depends upon a culture of human rights and equality.

Cooperation Between Treasury & Opposition

When parties set aside their differences to defend fundamental rights, the constitution becomes a living promise. PCHR convenes both treasury and opposition members to forge consensus around lasting human rights reform.