Stockholm, A UN human rights expert has called on Sweden to enhance its transitional justice efforts to rectify the longstanding effects of human rights violations against the Sámi people and the Tornedalian/Kven/Lantalaiset minority, stemming from historic assimilation policies. These policies, implemented by the state and church during the 19th and 20th centuries, included language bans, forced cultural assimilation, and various forms of abuse and disenfranchisement.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, UN Special Rapporteur Fabian Salvioli commended Sweden for legislative reforms aimed at reversing the damaging impacts of these assimilation policies on the affected communities’ culture, identity, and language. However, Salvioli emphasized that the revitalization of their languages and cultures remains fragile and requires further support.

During an official visit to Sweden, Salvioli noted the country’s recent adoption of a transitional justice process, which includes establishing truth-seeking mechanisms for both the Sámi and the Tornedalians/Kven/Lantalaiset. He stressed the importance of implementing the recommendations from these truth commissions promptly and developing relevant mechanisms to do so.

Salvioli highlighted ongoing repatriation and reburial efforts but pointed out the lack of progress in psychosocial rehabilitation, compensation, and formal apologies. He advocated for a comprehensive reparation program to fill these gaps and called for policies to memorialize the legacy of past abuses.

Addressing the ongoing discrimination, racism, and hatred against these communities, the UN expert urged Sweden to meet international standards for combating ethnic hatred and discrimination. He also highlighted the insufficient support for the Tornedalians/Kven/Lantalaiset as a national minority and called for prioritization of their rights and adequate financial resources to support their representatives’ work.

The expert expressed concern over the rights infringements of these communities in the context of development projects, including those related to the “green transition.” He urged the Swedish government to adhere to international standards for consulting affected communities and securing the free, prior, and informed consent of indigenous peoples.

Salvioli’s visit included meetings with government officials, civil society organizations, and representatives of the Sámi people and the Tornedalian/Kven/Lantalaiset minority. He plans to submit a full report on his findings to the Human Rights Council in 2024.

Islamabad, In a significant judicial push, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has cleared 265 cases within the span of a week. This effort reflects the court’s ongoing commitment to reduce the backlog of cases and provide timely justice to litigants.

According to Supreme Court of Pakistan, this progress was achieved in the week from March 18 to March 22, 2024. During this period, while the court resolved a substantial number of cases, it also saw the institution of 235 new cases.

The Chief Justice of Pakistan, alongside other Hon’ble Judges of the Supreme Court, remains devoted to expediting the disposal of cases. The concerted efforts to hear and resolve cases rapidly are part of a broader strategy to tackle the accumulation of pending cases and ensure efficient judicial service delivery to the people.

Islamabad, In a significant operation, the Islamabad Capital Police’s Khanna teams have apprehended an individual linked to numerous gas meter thefts, recovering 16 stolen meters in the process. This arrest aligns with a broader initiative to curb criminal activities within the city, spearheaded by the Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO) Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan.

According to Islamabad Capital Police, the arrest followed ICCPO Dr. Khan’s explicit directives to intensify actions against crime, ensuring the safety and security of Islamabad’s residents. Utilizing both technical means and on-the-ground intelligence, the Khanna police team successfully located and arrested the suspect, identified only as Noman.

The recovery of the stolen gas meters has led to the registration of cases against the accused, with further investigations ongoing to ascertain the extent of the criminal network involved. The suspect has reportedly confessed to engaging in various theft operations, highlighting the effectiveness of the police’s strategic approach.

The Islamabad Capital Police have called upon the community to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious behavior or activities. They emphasize the role of public cooperation in maintaining law and order, encouraging citizens to use the emergency helpline “Pucar-15” or “ICT-15” for prompt police response.