Islamabad (HRNW)- The 25th National Human Rights Conference, organized by the International Human Rights Observer (IHRO) at the National Library of Pakistan, concluded with a strong reaffirmation of collective commitment toward human dignity, justice, and ethical advocacy. The conference brought together policymakers, human rights defenders, academics, media professionals, and civil society representatives from across the country.
Participants described the conference as more than a routine gathering, calling it a meaningful platform that reinforced shared responsibility for the protection and promotion of human rights. The event underscored the growing importance of dialogue, accountability, and institutional cooperation in addressing both national and international human rights challenges.
Special appreciation was extended to Khalid Aftab Sulehria, whose leadership and vision were widely acknowledged throughout the conference. Under his stewardship, IHRO has emerged as a credible and internationally respected platform, successfully bridging policy, research, media, and grassroots realities. His commitment to inclusive dialogue and principled advocacy was evident in the conference’s structure and outcomes.
A notable moment of the event was the recognition of DAG NEWS, which was awarded the Human Rights Observer Certification for its responsible journalism and ethical reporting on Indian-administered Kashmir, domestic human rights concerns, and justice-oriented narratives. The recognition highlighted the growing role of independent media as an active partner in human rights protection rather than a passive observer.
Speaking at the conference as the only female representative from Azad Jammu & Kashmir, the speaker emphasized the grave human rights situation in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK). She stressed that ethical and responsible media—especially when aligned with international forums such as IMUN—must act as a guardian of truth, public accountability, and justice, particularly in conflict-affected regions where silence often enables injustice.
The conference featured a diverse panel of speakers, including senior leaders and policymakers such as Altaf Hussain Wani, Abdul Hameed Lone, Khawaja Farooq Ahmed, Afzal Butt, alongside scholars, activists, and youth representatives. Their discussions reflected IHRO’s commitment to evidence-based advocacy, inclusivity, and meaningful discourse.
Concluding the conference, participants expressed a collective resolve to translate dialogue into action. The consensus emphasized that sustainable progress in human rights requires moral clarity, institutional responsibility, and continuous collaboration.
Under the leadership of Dr. Aftab Sulehri, IHRO was reaffirmed as a pivotal force in advancing human rights advocacy in Pakistan and beyond, with a renewed commitment to justice, accountability, and global solidarity.
