Five United Nations special rapporteurs have expressed concern over ongoing criminal proceedings against human rights lawyers Iman Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha in Pakistan, warning that the charges brought against them may be used to suppress legal advocacy and freedom of expression.
In a formal communication addressed to the Government of Pakistan, the UN experts raised concerns about the convictions of the two lawyers under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. The signatories to the communication include special rapporteurs responsible for the independence of judges and lawyers, freedom of expression, the rights to peaceful assembly and association, the situation of human rights defenders, and the protection of human rights while countering terrorism.
On 24 January 2026, the two lawyers were sentenced to a combined total of 17 years’ imprisonment under Sections 9, 10 and 26-A of the law. The most severe penalty was a 10-year sentence for “cyber terrorism”. In addition, each lawyer was fined 36 million Pakistani rupees.
The UN experts noted particular concern over the definition of cyber terrorism within the legislation, stating that it appears broad and ambiguous and has been applied to statements that seem to relate to critical commentary on public affairs and human rights.
According to the UN communication, since 2022 at least ten First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered against Mazari, none of which have resulted in a conviction. These cases have included allegations linked to protests against enforced disappearances, criticism of military leadership, and arrests under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
The rapporteurs stated that these developments may give the impression that the two lawyers are being targeted because of their professional work and advocacy for human rights.
The communication also raised concerns about alleged procedural irregularities during the trial. These included claims that the defendants were not formally notified of the FIR, that the defence was not provided with key documents, that non-bailable warrants were issued, and that testimony was recorded in the absence of the accused and their legal representatives. The Islamabad High Court had also reportedly expressed reservations regarding aspects of the proceedings, although the trial court continued with the case.
The UN experts cited provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, particularly Articles 14, 19 and 15, noting that linking freedom of expression with terrorism-related charges could risk criminalising the work of human rights defenders.
They called on the Pakistani authorities to address the alleged violations, ensure fair trial guarantees, and undertake reforms to the PECA legislation so that it aligns with international human rights standards.
According to the communication, the letter represents the seventeenth formal correspondence sent to Pakistan during 2025 concerning concerns over pressure on lawyers, journalists and civil society actors.