The National Commission for Human Rights, Pakistan The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) was established through the National Commission for Human Rights Act, 2012. It is an independent National Human Rights Institution (NHRI), guided by the Paris Principles to ensure that human rights are protected and enforced within the country. NCHR was established in pursuance of Pakistan’s international human rights obligations and has been granted a wide mandate. It is mandated to monitor, investigate and deal with human rights complaints, act as a watchdog institution, set standards and enable implementation, promote awareness of and act as an advocate for human rights, generate and facilitate research and data production on human rights and drive policymaking to improve human rights protection. Moreover, NCHR has a significant mandate to advise the Government of Pakistan to fulfil its human rights obligations under the core UN human rights conventions including the ICERD. In 2024, the Commission was accredited as an A-Status NHRI by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), indicating its compliance with the Paris Principles. This is reflective of the strength of the Commission in upholding human rights within the country. In line with its role as watchdog, the NCHR is submitting this Report to the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to highlight onground issues that fall within the scope of the Convention and require immediate attention. Assessing the Implementation of ICERD in Pakistan Pakistan has introduced several laws and policies aimed at addressing discrimination and protecting minority rights, which indirectly align with the principles of ICERD. To ensure political representation of minority groups, Pakistan's Constitution reserves seats for religious minorities in both National and Provincial Assemblies, ensuring their representation in the legislative process. Minority members have been appointed to significant ministerial positions: positive example include the appointment of a Hindu woman, Krishna Kumari, as a senator and a Hindu man, Mahesh Kumar Malani, as a Member of the National Assembly. Efforts have been made to restore and protect religious sites belonging to minorities. For instance, the renovation of the Katas Raj Temples and the Kartarpur Corridor project, which allows Indian Sikh pilgrims visa-free access to one of their holiest sites, are significant steps towards promoting religious harmony. The government also officially recognizes and celebrates religious festivals of minorities, such as Diwali for Hindus and Christmas for Christians, promoting an inclusive environment. 3