Balochistan Advances Justice Reforms with EU and UN Support

QUETTA – Balochistan is trying to make significant strides in its quest for a more just and accountable society. This was the central theme of the 8th Provincial Steering Committee (PSC) meeting for the Rule of Law Roadmap, which took place in Quetta on September 10, 2025. The event brought together the European Union Delegation, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the Government of Balochistan to review progress and chart a path forward.

Financed by the EU’s 10 million euro Deliver Justice Project, the initiative aims to improve institutional performance, enhance public access to justice, and strengthen accountability mechanisms across the province. The meeting, chaired by Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat, Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, highlighted several key achievements. Notably, the government plans to seek Cabinet approval for five Criminal Justice Acts, a move that will modernize legal processes. The committee also approved a revised budget of PKR 632 million to implement further reforms and noted progress on recommendations from a recent Mid-Term Evaluation.

Mr. Jeroen Willems, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Pakistan, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment as the largest donor to these reforms. He stressed the importance of further progress, especially in areas related to the GSP+ Scheme, which includes criminal justice, human rights, and child protection.

UNODC’s presentation showcased the successful operationalization of Smart Police Stations in Quetta, Pishin, Loralai, Sibi, and Naseerabad, which are already boosting public trust in law enforcement. The discussion also covered the implementation of strengthened case management systems, digital tools, and capacity-building programs for various justice officials.

Mr. Troels Vester, UNODC Country Representative, praised the unwavering commitment of the Government of Balochistan. In his closing remarks, Mr. Shafqaat thanked the EU for its financial support and the UN agencies for their technical expertise, reiterating the government’s resolve to build a foundation of peace and development through the rule of law. The committee agreed on a set of immediate priorities, including enacting the new criminal justice laws, expanding smart policing, and implementing prison reforms.