EU Raises Alarm Over Military Court Verdicts in May 9 Violence Cases
The European Union (EU) has voiced concerns regarding the recent military court rulings in Pakistan, which sentenced 25 civilians to prison for their involvement in attacks on military installations during the May 9 riots.
According to the EU, these convictions conflict with Pakistan’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which the country is a signatory.
In a statement, the European External Action Service (EEAS) emphasized that trying civilians in military courts violates Pakistan’s commitment to fair and public trials as mandated by the ICCPR.
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Article 14 of the ICCPR ensures the right to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, adequate legal representation, and the public announcement of criminal judgments.
On December 20, a military court sentenced the civilians to prison terms ranging from two to ten years for participating in violent protests following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in May 2023.
The military termed the May 9 unrest as “politically instigated violence and arson,” labeling it a “dark chapter” in the nation’s history. It stated that these attacks, allegedly orchestrated for political motives, caused extensive damage to army properties and memorials for martyrs.
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The EU reiterated its concern that such rulings undermine Pakistan’s adherence to international human rights standards. The statement highlighted that the military court’s actions are “inconsistent with obligations under the ICCPR.”
The EU also reminded Pakistan of its commitments under the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP+), which grants duty-free access to the EU market in exchange for implementing 27 international conventions, including the ICCPR.
The GSP+ status has significantly boosted Pakistan’s exports, particularly in textiles, garments, and surgical goods. However, continued access to these trade benefits depends on Pakistan’s progress in human rights, governance, and environmental protection.
The EU urged Pakistan to uphold its international obligations and ensure fair and transparent judicial processes.
In defense of the verdicts, the military maintained that the trials followed due process and that all legal rights of the convicted individuals were upheld.
