In a historic moment for Pakistan and global human rights advocacy, Nayyab Ali, a leading Pakistani human rights defender and policy expert, has been shortlisted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the prestigious post of UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders.
Speaking to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), Nayyab Ali said the nomination is a reflection of the UN’s strong commitment to equality and inclusion. She noted that the recognition highlights the organization’s dedication to protecting human rights worldwide.
“This recognition reinforces the UN’s commitment to universality and dignity for all,” said Nayyab Ali. “If appointed, I aim to strengthen protections for human rights defenders, especially those from gender-diverse communities who continue to face violence and discrimination globally.”
The next stage of the selection process will be managed by a Special Consultative Group, which includes representatives from Malawi, the Republic of Korea, North Macedonia, Guatemala, and Türkiye. The group will send its recommendations to the President of the Human Rights Council, who will make the final appointment during the Council’s 61st Session.
Nayyab Ali currently serves as the Executive Director of Transgender Rights Consultants Pakistan and is a Global Human Rights Fellow at Harvard University’s Carr Center. She played a major role in drafting Pakistan’s landmark Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018, which was a milestone in advancing gender equality in the country.
Over the years, Nayyab Ali’s tireless work has earned her several international honors, including the Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and the Rule of Law in 2020.
Her shortlisting marks the first time in UN history that a transgender woman has been considered for a high-level position under the UN Special Procedures mechanism. It represents not only a proud moment for Pakistan but also a significant step toward greater diversity and representation within the United Nations system.
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