Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is HRCP a government body?
No. HRCP is an independent nongovernment, nonprofit organization. Unlike statutory national human rights institutions (such as the National Commission for Human Rights), which have a legally mandated quasi-judicial function, HRCP has no powers of enforcement. It is a rights watchdog whose primary role is to monitor and document the human rights situation in Pakistan and advocate for redressal, reform and accountability.
Is HRCP a service delivery organization?
No. HRCP’s mandate does not include providing essential goods and services directly to individuals or communities to improve wellbeing or reduce poverty. Its role is to advocate for the state to protect and fulfil people’s social, economic, cultural and environmental rights by (a) providing such essential goods and services as education, healthcare, housing, water and sanitation, and public amenities; (b) protecting the right to social security with a view to eliminating poverty; and (c) protecting local communities’ rights to natural resources.
Does HRCP investigate rights violations?
HRCP carries out fact-finding missions and studies by contextualizing larger human rights trends without necessarily identifying specific perpetrators or by attempting to establish verified facts pertaining to a specific rights violation. It does not, however, carry out forensic analyses or criminal investigations, which fall within the purview of state institutions such as the police or the courts. HRCP’s fact-finding reports aim to inform advocacy, raise public awareness or recommend policy reforms.
Where does HRCP operate?
HRCP’s head office is located in Lahore and it operates eight regional offices in Multan, Islamabad, Peshawar, Karachi, Hyderabad, Quetta, Turbat and Gilgit. However, its activities extend to other districts as well and it has access to volunteers in almost all districts of the country.
Does HRCP provide legal aid or financial assistance?
No, HRCP does not provide legal aid or financial assistance. Its Complaints Cell does, however, provide referrals to legal aid providers.
Does HRCP provide security to vulnerable human rights defenders?
No, HRCP cannot provide security directly to vulnerable individuals. It can, however, refer such individuals to protective services (shelter services or crisis intervention) through its Complaints Cell or raise their cases (if the individual gives consent) through press statements or reports.
Can HRCP help human rights defenders or other individuals at risk seek asylum overseas?
Unfortunately, HRCP cannot process requests for overseas asylum. It can, however, refer such individuals to protective services (shelter services or crisis intervention).
Does HRCP provide shelter to survivors of violence?
While HRCP does not operate a shelter for survivors of violence, it can refer such individuals to shelter services promptly through its Complaints Cell, which liaises with women’s shelters across the country.
Where does HRCP get funding from?
HRCP implements its strategic priorities using funds from various donors, primarily comprising funding partners whose human rights priorities match those of the organization. To preserve its autonomy, it does not apply for or accept funds from corporate bodies or state institutions. Moreover, as a rule, HRCP does not tailor its strategic priorities to meet those of other institutions. The organization’s work is directed by a governing Council that identifies areas of concern based on their knowledge and expertise as well as HRCP’s own human rights monitoring.
Can I volunteer with HRCP?
Yes, if you are a student, you can apply for a place on our internship programme. You can follow our social media platforms on X, Facebook and Instagram to see if there are campaigns or public events in your city in which to take part.
Can I use HRCP’s premises to hold an event?
HRCP offers its premises in Lahore to selected progressive rights-based organizations for a nominal fee (to cover the cost of utilities and staff) to hold training workshops, consultations and conferences. Please email Muhmmad Ilyas at m.ilyas@hrcp-web.org for details.
Does HRCP collect data on rights violations?
Yes, HRCP operates a publicly accessible Knowledge Management System—a rich digital archive comprising news reports and documents categorized by theme. You can access up to one year’s data yourself using this link or contact data@hrcp-web.org to request older data.
Whom do I contact if I want to interview an HRCP representative?
HRCP’s official spokespersons are its chairperson and secretary-general. Other senior staff members or office bearers may also articulate HRCP’s position in consultation with the official spokespersons. You can request an interview or comment by emailing press@hrcp-web.org. Make sure to give your full name, the media outlet with which you are associated, your contact details, and the issue on which you are requesting a comment.
Can I apply for membership if I am a Pakistani based overseas?
Yes, you can. Please email membership@hrcp-web.org for details.
Can I apply for membership if I am under 18?
Membership requires that the applicant possess a valid computerized national identity card. As such, minors cannot apply for membership.
What is a member in good standing?
A member in good standing is an individual who has been a member of HRCP for more than six months, is not in default in payment of their subscription and whose membership has not been suspended. Members in good standing are eligible to attend HRCP’s annual general meeting and vote in the organization’s governing body elections (held every three years).
