In recent years, Pakistan has registered modest economic growth, low inflation and price stability. Despite that, an estimated 29.5% of the population lives below the poverty line. The situation is more alarming when other socio-economic indicators are looked at. 38.8% of people in Pakistan are deprived in at least one-third of the indicators under education, health and living standards. Provincial and federal assemblies have recently adopted new laws against domestic violence, so-called “honour” crimes, and child labour. However, there remain significant gaps in the legal recognition and protection of several Covenant rights. Women, children, religious minorities, refugees, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTQI) persons continue to face barriers in the realization of their rights.
