International seminar on corruption and human rights starts in Islamabad

Islamabad: An International Seminar on the theme of “Combating Corruption – A Prerequisite for the full enjoyment of all Human Rights and Sustainable Development”, is being organised by the Government of Pakistan and the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Islamabad on from today (January 6-7).

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have also partnered in this important initiative.

The International Seminar shall focus on the multi-dimensional negative effects of corruption on sustainable development and full enjoyment of all human rights, including civil, political, economic, socialand cultural rights as well as the right to development. More than 200 international and national stakeholders including Government officials, OIC member and Observer States, IPHRC Commissioners, and representatives of the OIC Secretariat, United Nations, practitioners, academia, and civil society would participate in the International Seminar.

Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi will address the opening segment of the International Seminar as the Keynote Speaker. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (through a recorded message), Assistant Secretary General of OIC, and the IPHRC Chairperson would also deliver remarks during the opening segment. The IPHRC Commissioners will engage with the participants in comprehensive discussions, sharing best practices, and highlighting important aspects regarding the theme of the International Seminar. At the closing segment, Federal Minister for Human Rights Dr. Shireen M. Mazari will participate as the Keynote Speaker. A Declaration shall be adopted at the conclusion of the Seminar.

In line with Prime Minister Imran Khan’s vision,Pakistan has been at the forefront of efforts to raise international awareness about combating corruption and illicit financial flows. This International Seminar, being organized in collaboration with OIC-IPHRC and relevant UN agencies, is a part of these efforts and signifies international recognition of Pakistan as a leading voice on curbing corruption and promotion and protection of all human rights at the national and international level.