ISLAMABAD: Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari said on Thursday that Pakistan’s hosting of refugees in vast numbers has been exemplary and far beyond its resources.

Dr Mazari issued a statement on the eve of World Refugee Day.

She said Pakistan continues to host Afghan refugees despite the loss of interest by the world community, and Prime Minister Imran Khan has moved to improve facilities for them.

She said Pakistan has done this despite not being party to the 1951 Refugee Convention.

“In fact, we should sign the convention as we have gone far beyond its requirements without gaining any of the benefits and there is always more everyone can do better in terms of treatment of refugees,” she said.

She also criticised wealthy states for closing their doors to refugees or selectively admitting them based on religion and skills, or paying Muslim states to host refugees on their behalf.

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2019