The European Union (EU) has expressed concerns over the recent sentencing of 25 civilians by a military court, stating that “these verdicts are seen as inconsistent with the obligations that Pakistan has undertaken under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)”.
The statement, issued on December 22, aid that in line with Article 14 of ICCPR every person is entitled to a fair and public trial in a court that is independent, impartial and competent, and has the right to adequate and effective legal representation.
“It also stipulates that any judgement rendered in a criminal case shall be made public,” according to the EU spokesperson.
EU Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Riina Kionka shared the official statement on social media.
The EU spokesperson recalled that under the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), beneficiary countries, including Pakistan, have voluntarily agreed to implement effectively 27 international core conventions on human rights, labour rights, the environment and good governance.
The EU is Pakistan’s second-largest trading partner, with the GSP+ arrangement contributing significantly to the growth of bilateral trade.
The EU reaction came after military courts sentenced 25 civilians to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for attacking military installations during riots which erupted following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan in May last year.
In a detailed statement, the military said that on May 9, 2023, the country witnessed “tragic incidents of politically provoked violence and arson at multiple places, marking a dark chapter in the history of Pakistan” when “politically orchestrated attacks were carried out on the army installations and monuments of martyrs.”