A group of 44 Democratic lawmakers in the US House of Representatives has urged the American administration to impose immediate sanctions on senior Pakistani officials. They claim that Pakistan is witnessing an alarming increase in transnational repression and a severe decline in human rights protections.
This appeal was made in a formal letter addressed to the US Secretary of State. It was led by Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal and Congressman Greg Casar, with additional signatures from several well-known members of Congress.
Lawmakers Highlight Escalating Threats Targeting US Citizens
In their letter, the lawmakers accused certain Pakistani authorities of threatening US citizens and residents who criticise Pakistan’s powerful institutions. These threats, they said, often extend to family members living in Pakistan.
The group demanded visa bans and asset freezes for officials believed to be involved in these acts. They argued that such targeted measures are necessary to protect individuals who speak out against abuses.
According to the lawmakers, US-based critics have faced harassment, intimidation, and coercion. Even the relatives of these individuals have allegedly been subjected to arbitrary detention and violence within Pakistan.
Concerns Over Pakistan’s Political and Civil Rights Decline
The letter described Pakistan as experiencing a deepening authoritarian crisis. The lawmakers stated that political opponents are being held without charges. They also claimed that journalists face abduction, harassment, or forced exile.
Ordinary citizens have reportedly been arrested for social media activity, creating a climate of fear.
The lawmakers added that women, religious minorities, and marginalised ethnic groups, particularly in Balochistan, are facing intensified repression and surveillance.
Notable Cases Cited by US Representatives
Among the examples mentioned, the letter highlighted the case of Ahmad Noorani, a US-based investigative journalist. His brothers were allegedly abducted for more than a month after he published reports on corruption involving senior officials.
The lawmakers also pointed to irregularities in Pakistan’s 2024 elections, referencing concerns raised in various independent observations. They stated that such issues raise serious questions about democratic processes in the country.
Call for Global Magnitsky Sanctions and Release of Political Prisoners
To address the situation, the lawmakers urged the US administration to enforce Global Magnitsky sanctions, impose visa restrictions, and freeze assets of officials involved in systematic abuses.
They also called for the release of former prime minister Imran Khan and other political detainees. They argued that these actions would reaffirm the United States’ commitment to defending human rights and ensuring stability in South Asia.
Congress Seeks Clear Answers from the US State Department
To strengthen oversight, the lawmakers attached five detailed questions for the State Department. These questions concern sanctions criteria, mechanisms to prevent transnational repression, and steps needed to protect US residents whose families face threats abroad.
They have asked for a formal response by December 17, 2025.
Earlier this year, more than fifty lawmakers introduced another measure called the Pakistan Freedom and Accountability Act, which also aimed to sanction individuals involved in undermining democratic norms in Pakistan.
