Faisalabad, Pakistan: Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP), in partnership with the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD), organized the 14th Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) Network Meeting, followed by the Closing and Reaffirmation Ceremony of the project titled “Human Rights Documentation, Fact-Findings, and Advocacy for the Marginalized-II,” in Faisalabad.

The event brought together human rights defenders, civil society representatives, government and police officials, journalists, lawyers, and other key stakeholders. Participants from different cities also joined the proceedings online. The gathering provided an opportunity to review the project's accomplishments, share success stories, evaluate challenges, and explore strategies for sustaining human rights advocacy beyond the project's conclusion.

Launched in April 2026, following its 1st phase in January 2025, the project aimed to strengthen the HRDs Network through regular meetings, human rights case monitoring, fact-finding missions, capacity-building sessions, awareness-raising campaigns, and advocacy initiatives. These activities focused on documenting human rights violations, assisting victims, and advancing the rights of religious minorities and other marginalized communities throughout Pakistan.

Naveed Walter, President of Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP), expressed his sincere gratitude to TFD, members of the HRDs Network, and all participating stakeholders for their valuable support, active participation, and meaningful contributions. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in promoting democracy, the rule of law, freedom of expression, religious freedom, equality, and accountability. He also highlighted the project’s contribution to the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its alignment with relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, he reaffirmed HRFP’s commitment to continuing its initiatives to bring positive and sustainable change in society by transforming mindsets, improving individual circumstances, and fostering a more inclusive, just, and equitable environment for all.

As part of the closing ceremony, certificates of appreciation were presented to human rights defenders (HRDs) and other contributors in recognition of their dedicated efforts to protect human rights, uphold democratic principles, and promote fundamental freedoms. Members of the HRDs Network, joining both virtually from across Pakistan and in person, including James Lal, John Victor, Naseem Haroon, Ejaz Ghauri, Ejaz Jacob, Emmanuel Ghauri, Raja Thomas, Zahida Parveen, Nighat Mumtaz, Sohail Emmanuel, Saleem Anwar, and others, reaffirmed their collective commitment to addressing human rights violations, challenging political intolerance, and resisting undemocratic practices.

HRFP Program Coordinator Shadman John, Research Officer Nadeem Walter, Regional Coordinator Nusrat Samuel and Administrator Lawrence Thomas presented key project achievements and success stories, emphasizing the continued importance of providing support and assistance to victims of human rights violations. HRFP also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the work of its Fact-Finding Teams and HRDs Advocacy Group to document violations, engage relevant authorities, pursue justice, and advocate for necessary policy reforms.

The ceremony also highlighted the ongoing role of HRFP's REAT Helpline (0800-0-9494), which has remained operational since 2013. From January to September 2026, the helpline received more than 900 calls, following 1,220 calls in 2025 and 1,198 in 2024. These figures demonstrate the continued demand for accessible support services and effective responses to human rights concerns, particularly those related to religion, belief, and freedom of expression. The REAT Helpline aligns with Articles 18 to 22 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, addressing rights related to expression, assembly, association, and thought, including freedom of religion or belief. Reported cases are reviewed and responded to through the HRFP Helpline Desk to ensure appropriate support and action.

Moreover, HRFP reaffirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with TFD and the Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) Network to strengthen grassroots advocacy, protect vulnerable communities, and promote democracy, justice, equality, and fundamental freedoms across Pakistan. The successful completion of the project marks a significant milestone in sustaining a coordinated network of human rights defenders committed to upholding human dignity, reinforcing democratic values, and advancing human rights for all. As part of the event, participants also watched a video documentary highlighting HRFP’s collaborative work with TFD from the project’s inception to the present, showcasing key achievements, progress, and the impact of their joint efforts in advancing human rights.