NGO in the special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations
The condition of prisons in Pakistan is another area of concern for IHRO. Visits to various prisons revealed overcrowded facilities, inadequate healthcare, and poor living conditions for inmates. Many prisoners do not receive the education or vocational training needed for rehabilitation, making it difficult for them to reintegrate into society upon release. IHRO’s efforts have included gathering information, conducting public hearings, and making recommendations for prison reform to ensure that the rights of prisoners are respected and that they are treated with dignity.
A significant concern raised by IHRO is the situation of child prisoners. Many children are incarcerated either as a result of being accused of crimes themselves or due to being detained with their imprisoned mothers. These children face severe challenges, including a lack of access to education, proper nutrition, and mental health support. The prison environment is detrimental to their physical and psychological well-being, and IHRO advocates for the implementation of alternative measures, such as rehabilitation programs and juvenile justice systems, to address the needs of these vulnerable individuals.