Consistent Evaluation.

Pakistan's strong commitment to complying with the requirements of the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) status offered by the European Union (EU) has been pivotal in securing trade advantages and boosting economic growth. This GSP+ status grants Pakistan important trade preferences and market access to the EU. However, the recent decision of EU Members of European Parliament (MEPs) to extend the existing rules till 2027, primarily to avoid trade disruptions, raises concerns about potential double standards in the evaluation of beneficiary countries.

While the decision to extend the existing GSP+ rules preserves the status quo, it presents a valid basis for questioning the potential presence of double standards in the evaluation process. Pakistan, alongside other beneficiary countries, is expected to meet international human rights conventions. However, it becomes crucial to examine if all beneficiary countries are evaluated consistently and fairly based on the same criteria. Achieving transparency in the evaluation process is essential to maintain trust and credibility.

For the EU to maintain credibility and ensure fairness, it is imperative that monitoring across all beneficiary nations is carried out consistently and fairly, taking into account the unique challenges each country faces in fulfilling its obligations. By recognizing and...