A bilateral bill has been introduced in the US Parliament, which is named Pakistan Freedom and Accountability Act (HR 5271). Its objective is to impose strict restrictions on Pakistani military and government officials who weakened serious human rights violations in Pakistan and weakening democracy. The bill has been specially brought to target senior officers of the Pakistani Army.
Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act (2016) is an American law. It allows human rights violations and property seizure, visa ban and economic restrictions on individuals/institutions involved in corruption worldwide. Under this law, the US President gets the power of action.
Who brought the bill?
The bill was introduced by Republican MP Bill Huzenga from Michigan. It received the support of several leaders including Democrat MP Sydney Kamalagar-Dov, Republican MP John Mulanar, Democrat Julie Johnson, Republican Jefferson Shrev. Additional co-operatives include Rich McCormic, Jack Bergman, Joquin Castro and Mike Laler. The bill has been sent to the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Judiciary Committee for review.
Bill purpose
Protecting democracy and free and fair elections in Pakistan. To promote human rights, rule of law and freedom of expression. The current and former officials of the Pakistani Army and Security Forces are to be involved in human rights violations, large -scale corruption, political instability spreading. Under this, US President can impose visa ban, property freeze and other economic restrictions.
Why is this bill important?
In recent months, there was a little warm in the relationship between America and Pakistan, but it is clear from this bill that America is serious about increasing human rights violations in Pakistan and threat to democratic institutions. This step reflects the importance of human rights and democracy in US foreign policy.