The document "Human Rights Activity - RFI 72039125RFI00001" is a Request for Information (RFI) issued by USAID/Pakistan for the purpose of gathering input from both international and local Pakistani organizations concerning human rights issues in Pakistan. Released on October 2, 2024, this RFI invites interested parties to share their experiences, capabilities, and insights to help shape a new human rights activity under USAID/Pakistan's Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) for 2023-2028, which prioritizes human rights.

This RFI is not a formal funding opportunity or solicitation for proposals. Instead, it seeks to gather information to assist USAID in designing an effective human rights program. It specifically calls for input from a wide array of actors, including human rights activists, private sector partners, public institutions, NGOs, legal aid organizations, academia, and government human rights departments. The feedback will help in identifying key opportunities, potential collaborations, and areas requiring support or improvement in Pakistan’s human rights landscape.

The document highlights the challenges facing human rights in Pakistan, such as restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and internet access, as well as issues like enforced disappearances, gender-based violence, and discrimination against minorities. Despite these challenges, Pakistan has ratified seven UN conventions on human rights, which supports its GSP+ trade status with the EU. Moreover, the country’s constitution provides for a range of fundamental rights, and various laws and institutions exist to promote these rights. However, the implementation of these laws remains weak, limiting the efficacy of human rights protections.

USAID's interest is focused on supporting institutions and services for the protection of human rights. Potential partners include Pakistan’s Ministry of Human Rights, provincial human rights commissions, the National Commission on Human Rights, and other relevant bodies. The RFI also notes the need to enhance services for victims of human rights abuses, strengthen advocacy efforts, and improve public awareness of human rights issues.

Responses to the RFI must be submitted electronically to Mr. Sufyan Javed by October 21, 2024. Participants are required to complete and submit a Word document (Attachment B) that contains responses to specific questions outlined by USAID. However, responses to the RFI will not be considered applications, nor will they result in any advantage in future procurement processes. No individual feedback will be provided to respondents, and any proprietary information must be clearly marked.

This RFI serves as a planning document and does not imply any commitment by USAID to fund activities or award contracts. Its primary purpose is to gather valuable insights from the field to inform the development of future human rights programming in Pakistan.