1-Day Capacity Building Training for Human Rights Defenders (HRDs)
Organized by the National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP), Diocese of Karachi, on 4th December 2025.
A Varied Gathering at St. Patrick’s College
At St. Patrick’s College, men and women from different communities and walks of life were present in the hall, some curious, some nervous, and many driven by a desire to bring change. They were students, religious leaders, and other professionals who had witnessed injustice and refused to remain silent any longer. A group of 21 enthusiastic participants, for some, it was the first time anyone had told them:“Your voice matters. Your courage matters. Your community needs you. And NCJP is with you.”
A New Chapter for Human Rights in Karachi
The HEAT Program and Its Goal
The training was part of a long-term initiative organized under the Human Rights Education and Activists Training (HEAT) program, and aimed at creating a strong local network of HRDs, orienting them on NCJP’s work and initiatives, and building their capacity on human rights.
Enrollment and Selection Process
More than 100 individuals were initially enrolled through parishes and community representatives, each representing a different struggle and a different story. After selection, 30 passionate individuals were chosen to become the new frontline defenders of human rights in the current chapter.
NCJP Regional Team Leading the Training
The NCJP regional team, including Mr. Kashif Anthony and Mr. Faisal Boota, with the guidance of Diocesan Director Fr. Shahzad Arshad, organised the training and planned activities that made even the shyest participants smile, learn and comfortably contribute in the sessions.
Learning and Empowering through Interactive Sessions
Personal Introductions, Hopes, and Fears
The sessions unfolded with the participants introducing themselves and sharing their experiences, their hopes “to learn,” “to serve,” “to protect” and also their fears “Will I be able to do this?”, “Is it safe?”, “Do I know enough?” Once spoken aloud, these fears softened, and a sense of unity took their place.
Human Rights and Fundamental Rights
Mr. Kashif Anthony (Diocesan Coordination) facilitated the session, setting the base for understanding the “situation of human rights in Pakistan and fundamental rights”. For many, it was eye-opening to learn that fundamental rights are not privileges; they are promises made by the Constitution.
Trends in Online Activism & Staying Safe
Being the advocates of human rights, the new chapter of defenders were informed about the new ‘trends of online activism and staying safe online and offline’. Mr. Faisal Boota (desk officer) guided the participants on the emerging trends of online activism and how to protect themselves, their data, and their communities in online and offline.
Role and Responsibilities of HRDs in NCJP’s Work
Ms. Merab Arif (National Coordinator- HEAT program) elaborated on the ‘role of HRDs and their responsibilities in NCJP’s work’. Participants were briefed on how to identify violations and report them to regional and national offices. They received guidelines and were informed about techniques for conducting fact-finding and reporting. NCJP’s Chat box was introduced to HRDs for sharing cases of violations that require assistance. Additionally, the opportunities available for active chapter members/HRDS, including playing their roles and fulfilling responsibilities, were shared with the participants.
Concluded and Way Forward
The training concluded with a renewed commitment to work for marginalized communities. The Diocesan Director, Fr. Shahzad Arshad, lit a candle for peace in line with the 16 Days of Activism and Human Rights Day. He appreciated the participants and encouraged them to become ambassadors of peace in society, assuring them of NCJP’s continued support.
Follow-Up and Continued Engagement
Following the training, follow-up sessions with the Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) will be organized throughout the year to strengthen their engagement in networking and advocacy.
