ISLAMABAD: Dutch Ambassador for Human Rights Wim Geerts has said Pakistan possesses a vibrant and resilient civil society. He stressed the importance of continuous dialogue, proportionality in law enforcement and non-discrimination as core principles for protecting human dignity.

He was speaking to Dawn before an embassy of Netherlands event to award its annual Human Rights Tulip to the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), recognising its institutional role in promoting accountability, protecting fundamental freedoms and advancing human rights in Pakistan.

The Dutch envoy’s visit to Pakistan was timed to coincide with the Asma Jahangir Conference held in Lahore, which he described as a valuable platform for open and frank discussions on human rights. He said the conference brought together human rights ambassadors, UN special rapporteurs, journalists, activists and civil society representatives, creating space for the exchange of experiences and best practices.

Commenting on religious freedom, one of the Netherlands’ five human rights priorities, Mr Geerts said safeguarding minorities was a universal responsibility. Drawing parallels between Europe and Pakistan, he said countries with religious majorities must ensure minorities were treated without discrimination, just as European states must protect Muslim minorities. He highlighted Article 1 of the Dutch constitution, which guaranteed equality regardless of religion, race, gender or sexual orientation, calling non-discrimination a fundamental and ongoing commitment.

On freedom of expression, Mr Geerts referred to discussions around Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), saying while such legislation had a rationale, its implementation and interpretation were crucial. He confirmed that the Netherlands aligned with a recent European Union statement expressing concern over harsh sentences awarded in certain freedom of expression cases. He noted that individual cases were better addressed through dialogue rather than public commentary.

Discussing Pakistan’s GSP-Plus trade status, Mr Geerts said the arrangement was linked to expectations regarding international human rights conventions and would be reviewed ahead of its expiry in 2027. He said the EU aimed to encourage further progress through engagement rather than confrontation.

On the issue of Afghan refugees, he acknowledged Pakistan’s longstanding hospitality towards millions of refugees and said any current measures should respect international conventions and human dignity.

Mr Geerts said his visit reflected the Netherlands’ commitment to sustained engagement with Pakistan, both bilaterally and at multilateral forums, adding such exchanges helped build mutual understanding and long-term cooperation.

Award ceremony

Meanwhile, the award ceremony was attended by federal ministers, parliamentarians, representatives of civil society, members of the diplomatic community and media.

Ambassador of the Netherlands to Pakistan Robert-Jan Siegert handed over the Human Rights Tulip to NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha, acknowledging her leadership and the commission’s work in addressing sensitive and complex human rights issues.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Siegert said the NCHR had demonstrated how independent institutions could make a meaningful difference by “shining light where it is most needed”. He said the award reflected a shared commitment to universal values and the belief that progress begins when courage is matched with compassion.

Receiving the award on behalf of the commission, Ms Agha said the recognition belonged to “every silenced voice and every unseen struggle” and reaffirmed her resolve to continue speaking for those denied justice. She noted that the commission would remain steadfast in its mandate despite pressures and challenges.

The Dutch Ambassador for Human Rights, Wim Geerts, said he was impressed by the resilience and vibrancy of Pakistan’s civil society and observed a strong commitment to human dignity, justice and equal rights during his engagements.

Other speakers noted that human rights principles were increasingly under pressure globally, making it essential to reaffirm commitment to democratic values and recognise those working to uphold them. Reference was also made to Pakistan’s contributions to international human rights and legal frameworks, including the legacy of figures such as Sir Zafarullah Khan and the Asma Jahangir.

The Human Rights Tulip award, previously conferred on journalists, lawyers and activists, was this year awarded to an institution for the first time. The NCHR was recognised for its policy work, innovative use of technology and interventions in sensitive cases, including investigations carried out under difficult circumstances.

Published in Dawn, February 11th, 2026