ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Pakistan conferred its annual Human Rights Tulip Award on the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) in recognition of the institution’s role in promoting accountability and safeguarding fundamental freedoms in the country.
The award was presented by Ambassador Robert-Jan Siegert to NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha at a ceremony held in Islamabad. The embassy said the honour acknowledged the Commission’s institutional efforts to advance and protect human rights across Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Siegert said the NCHR had demonstrated how institutions could make a difference by highlighting issues where attention was most needed. He added that the award reaffirmed a shared commitment to universal values and the belief that progress begins when courage meets compassion.
Rabiya Javeri Agha said the award belonged to every silenced voice, unseen struggle and vulnerable individual seeking justice, adding that she would continue to advocate for those who could not speak for themselves.
The Dutch Ambassador for Human Rights, Wim Geerts, who is currently visiting Pakistan, also attended the ceremony. During his visit, he held meetings with government authorities, civil society representatives and other stakeholders to discuss shared human rights priorities. He said he was impressed by the vibrancy and resilience of Pakistan’s civil society and its commitment to human dignity, justice and equal rights.
The event was attended by the Federal Minister for Law and Justice, members of parliament, representatives of civil society organisations and other distinguished guests.
