Mr. I. A. Rehman decorated with the Human Rights Icon Award

Legendary human rights activist Mr. I. A. Rehman was decorated with the Human Rights Icon Award amidst a standing ovation at the 15th Freedom Gate Pakistan (FGP) alumni gathering organized at the Lahore Country Club in Muridke on October 29, 2017.

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Pakistan (“FNF Pakistan”) recognized the tireless efforts of Mr. Rehman in defending the human rights of all citizens in Pakistan. While paying tribute to Mr. Rehman, FNF Pakistan, acknowledged its long relationship with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (“HRCP”), from which Mr. Rehman retired as Secretary-General recently. Mr. Muhammad Anwar, Head of Administration at FNF Pakistan and a member of FGP, shared his experiences of working with HRCP for over 15 years. He admired Mr. Rehman’s modest and hardworking nature.

Previous country heads of FNF Pakistan and the regional director for South Asia also shared their experiences of working with Mr. Rehman via video messages that were shown to the participants. They congratulated Mr. Rehman on his retirement and recognized his efforts for Pakistan and its people. Current Regional Director for South Asia, Dr. Ronald Meinardus, and Head of Country Office Pakistan, Dr. Almut Besold, presented him with a FGP momento as a token of tribute.

Mr. Rehman consequently thanked FNF Pakistan and reiterated the long-lasting bond between HRCP and FNF-Pakistan. He explained that FNF Pakistan has a special relationship with HRCP as FNF Pakistan was the first organization to work and support HRCP back in the days when no one believed in HRCP. Mr. Rehman deliberated on the current socio-political situation in the country and stressed the ongoing need to strengthen democratic values in Pakistan.

Category: English, Media Monitoring