GSP-Plus warning

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Pakistan, it seems, is running into a serious problem with the European Union. The privilege of GSP-Plus is under the scanner, and indications emanating from a visiting EU mission reveal that it has taken serious exceptions to the flaunting of international protocols on human rights, civil liberties, freedom of speech and religious association. The mission led by Olof Skoog has made it clear that Islamabad should look into the alleged excesses reported in these realms, warning it that the trade benefits enjoyed cannot be "taken for granted". This is tantamount to an indictment of the country on governance, underscoring an indispensable necessity of indulging in some deep introspection.

The GSP-Plus is a lifeline of sorts in exports for a melting economy, through which Pakistani products have an instant access to EU markets on duty-free or minimum duty. It has to be noted that Pakistan exports goods worth more than $9 billion to the EU, accounting for almost 30% of total exports to the world. Losing this staggering business would be myopic, and all that is desired is to put the house in order and come out clean by addressing the concerns of a major trading partner.

The EU mission has reasons to point a finger at Pakistan's dismal record of human rights and political freedom, as the last two years of crisscrossing suggests too many crests and troughs. It is also a given that Pakistan is duty-bound to implement the 27 international conventions on human and labour rights, environmental protection, climate change and good governance, to continue having GSP-Plus facilities, and any lapses at home cannot be just brushed aside.

While the delegation has met several movers and shakers in the government and society, as well as the Chief Justice, it is incumbent upon Pakistan to come up with tangible improvements. Glaring issues such as those spotted by the commission, trying civilians in military courts, usurping fundamental rights and legislating to curb freedom of the press, solicit an immediate course-correction. Time to end the ostrich syndrome and work inwardly for a better tomorrow.