ISLAMABAD: Global parliamentarians have called for reforms in international legal frameworks so that the perpetrators of international crimes face consequences for their actions.

In a communique at the end of a two-day annual forum of ‘Parliamentarians for Global Action’ (PGA), the group stressed the need for effective international cooperation and participation to establish the rule of law.

The participants noted that the fight against impunity for international crimes is a “moral imperative”, and the rule of law can only be established if victims of international crimes receive justice.

The convener of the parliamentary task force on Sustainable Development Goals, Bilal Azhar Kayani, said Pakistan supported and promoted existing international legal frameworks provided that they are impartial, independent, fair, and free from subordination of political interests.

MNA Mehtab Akbar Rashidi claimed the world community was “not paying the required attention” to issues of sexual and gender-based violence.

A comprehensive response from all countries, such as the ratification of international frameworks, was crucial to ensure accountability of criminals who perpetrate sexual and gender-based violence, she added.

The lawmakers urged PGA members to provide finances to ensure the active functioning of the International Criminal Court for swift justice.

Scholarships for Afghan students

The forum was informed that Pakistan was offering scholarships to over 4,000 Afghan students studying medicine, engineering, agriculture, management, and computer science.

MNA Sher Ali Arbab said at least one-third of the scholarships would be reserved for female students.

Published in Dawn, October 30th, 2024