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Although Pakistan enjoys significant international support from the US and other governments as a key partner in the “war on terror,” its military regime has demonstrated absolute disdain for fundamental democratic reform and human rights. The government’s refusal to cede control to civilians and continued repression of moderate political parties has fueled the growth and power of religious extremists. Simultaneously, General Musharraf’s government has suppressed secular civil society voices and systematically dismantled constitutional protections that foster democratic principles. Activists report growing surveillance and harassment by police and intelligence agents, and attempts by the government to control their work. Judicial corruption is widespread, as is police abuse and violence against women and religious minorities.
Pakistan is home to several well-respected and well-funded organizations that have played a critical role in highlighting human rights violations, providing legal assistance and leading public protests in support of civil and political rights. Activists and advisors to the Fund underscore the importance of building on this history by developing a new generation of activists and fostering the growth of grassroots movements. The Fund’s grant-making in Pakistan thus includes support to promising groups seeking to organize people for collective action to challenge human rights abuses at the local level. The Fund’s grant-making strategy is increasingly focused on supporting grassroots organizations that demonstrate promise and have the vision and potential to grow, operate in areas where similar groups do not exist, and lack access to donors, networks, and international organizations. Building on the strength of smaller organizations around the country will augment efforts to promote civil and political rights, and also strengthen advocacy in support of economic, social and cultural rights. In response to the suppression of secular political parties and civil society groups, the Fund supports organizations attempting to challenge fundamentalist agendas by raising awareness of human rights principles, training community activists to challenge violence against women and other abuses, promoting increased legal protections for women and children, and promoting the concept of community participation in political, and economic development processes.
