Asma Jahangir: Taking her legacy forward

Press release

Asma Jahangir: Taking her legacy forward

Lahore, 7 April 2018. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) is gravely concerned at the vacuum created by the passing away of its co-founder, Asma Jahangir. In a statement issued following its 32nd Annual General Meeting, HRCP said that, while Ms Jahangir’s passing was a major setback to the human rights movement, it was critical that her work continue with renewed determination. Her matchless contribution to protecting human rights, women’s equality and the rights of religious minorities, workers and peasants across Pakistan should not be in vain.

Asma Jahangir’s unique contribution to the human rights discourse is acknowledged by friend and foe alike, nationally and globally. Pakistan has not known a braver, more tireless human rights defender. Ms Jahangir demonstrated what it takes to uphold human dignity—from standing up for the most vulnerable people on the ground to defending international law in senior United Nations roles.

The shock of losing Asma Jahangir has been devastating for various groups and platforms across the country. For HRCP, however, the loss is irreparable. Ms Jahangir was committed to the rights of every citizen: she was the bedrock of HRCP and an exemplar of the human rights movement in the country. It is now left to civil society honour her legacy by carrying her work forward.

 

Dr. Mehdi Hasan

Chairperson

Category: English