CIVIL SOCIETY IN PAKISTAN

That this House notes that the Government of Pakistan has implemented policies severely restricting the operating space for local and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs); further notes that this action will undermine Pakistan's ability to reach its development goals; urges the Government to recognise the essential role NGOs play in countering violent extremism and promoting development and human rights; highlights that both the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the European Council have urged a transparent and streamlined system for registration of NGOs in Pakistan; and further urges the Government of Pakistan to ease the negative effects of the over-regulation of NGOs, including the policy of regulation of international NGOs and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act.