Legal Reforms & Human Rights Laws
Calls for Global Input on Racism, Law Enforcement and Rights
Geneva (HRNW)- In preparation for the 2026 UN High Commissioner’s annual report, the OHCHR has issued a call for input from governments, civil society, and stakeholders. This initiative seeks updates and data on how systemic racism and law enforcement violations continue to affect people of African descent and other marginalized groups worldwide. The information collected will…
Odisha Human Rights Commission Calls for Law Reform
Bhubaneswar, India (HRNW)- The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has recommended a comprehensive review of the state’s Anti-Witchhunt Act and its implementation plan. The commission highlighted persistent harassment, forced displacement, and social exclusion faced by alleged “witch” victims, urging more effective enforcement, awareness programs, and a gender-neutral legal framework to better protect vulnerable groups. HRNW Contribution…
EU Parliament Prepares Human Rights Debate and Votes
Strasbourg, France / Brussels, Belgium (HRNW) — European lawmakers are set to debate and vote this week on a comprehensive report assessing global backsliding in human rights and democracy during 2025. The report, slated for discussion in plenary sessions, calls for stronger EU action on human rights protections, deeper integration of rights metrics into trade and…
Sexual Harassment Charter in NHS England Fails to Protect Workers
London, United Kingdom (HRNW) —Healthcare unions in England are warning that a high-profile charter designed to eliminate sexual harassment in NHS workplaces has not worked as intended. Despite widespread adoption of a zero-tolerance framework, complaints have increased significantly, with workers reporting ongoing harassment and inadequate enforcement. Unions are now campaigning for standardized reporting, stronger safeguards,…
Landmark Verdict: Sindh High Court Rules on Free Education for Underprivileged Children
Sukkur, Sindh (HRNW) — In a significant constitutional ruling, the Sindh High Court (SHC) Sukkur Bench has reinforced the legal obligation of private schools to provide free education to underprivileged children while simultaneously shielding educational institutions from harassment. The verdict was delivered by Justice Adnan Iqbal Chaudhry in response to Constitutional Petition No. D-1592/2025. The petition…
USA AI Bias Legislation Reintroduced
Washington D.C., USA (HRNW)- Lawmakers in the United States have officially reintroduced the Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems (BIAS) Act. This legislation mandates that federal agencies utilizing artificial intelligence must establish dedicated civil rights offices. The move aims to protect vulnerable communities from discriminatory automated decision-making in housing, healthcare, and law enforcement. Support our mission: Help…
India New Legislation Sparks Concerns Over Freedom of Assembly
New Delhi, India (HRNW) – The Indian Parliament has introduced a restrictive new Public Order Bill, drawing sharp criticism from civil society organizations and human rights defenders. HRNW sources report that the bill grants local authorities broad powers to preemptively ban gatherings of more than four people in “sensitive zones” without judicial oversight. Activists argue…
Amendments to Punjab Police Order 2002 Strengthen Measures Against Protesters
Lahore (HRNW)- The Punjab government has amended the Punjab Police Order 2002 to impose stricter measures for controlling protests and penalizing demonstrators. Under the revised law: Violent crowd behavior is now classified as a non-bailable and cognizable offense, with trials to be conducted in Sessions Courts. Penalties have been significantly increased, including up to 10…
Senate Health Committee Proposes Strict Regulations on E-Cigarettes and Vaping
Islamabad (HRNW)- The Senate Standing Committee on Health has reviewed the “Electronic Nicotine Delivery System Regulation Bill”, which proposes complete prohibition of selling vapes to individuals under 18 and recommends strict penalties for violations. Sponsored by Senator Sarmad Ali, the bill includes the following key provisions: Ban on vape sales within 50 meters of schools…
Human Rights Concerns Mount as Myanmar Holds Elections Amid Civil War
Naypyidaw – Myanmar – (HRNW)– Myanmar proceeded with nationwide elections on 27 December despite a deepening civil war and humanitarian crisis, as reported by international observers. Millions face acute food insecurity and displacement, while ongoing conflict has been marked by abuses against civilians, restrictions on freedom of movement, and attacks on humanitarian workers. Rights advocates…