1-Day Capacity Building Training for Human Rights Defenders (HRDs)
Organized by the National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP), Diocese of Quetta, on 6th December 2025.
Gathering at Caritas Hall, Quetta
At Caritas Hall, Bishop’s house, Quetta, men and women from different communities and walks of life were present in the training 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 22 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 Quetta
The HEAT Program and Its Objective
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 of Participants
More than 80 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 Facilitating the Training
The NCJP regional team, including Mr. Joel Bastian and Mr. Saqib Rohail, with the guidance of Diocesan Director Fr. Tahir Sattar, 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
Participant Introduction and Constitutional Framework
The sessions unfolded with the introduction of the participants and commission by Mr. Joel Bastian (Diocesan Coordination). Further, setting the base Mr. Bastian elaborated the articles in the constitution for understanding the “situation of human rights in Pakistan and fundamental rights”.
Online Activism and Safety Awareness
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. Saqib Rohail (desk officer) guided and introduced the participants to 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
Commitment to Marginalized Communities and Peace
The training concluded with a new commitment to work for the marginalised communities. The Diocesan Director, Fr. Tahir Sattar appreciated the participants and encouraged them to continue their role for peace and harmony in society, assuring them of NCJP’s support.
Badge Distribution and Welcome to CCJP/NCJP Family
Fr. Tahir Sattar further elaborated the significance of living in a society where every individual, regardless of faith, is entitled to dignity and protection. The participants were given badges and welcomed to the CCJP/NCJP family.
Follow-Up, Networking, and Advocacy
Following the training, follow-up sessions with the HRDs will be conducted throughout and engage in networking and advocacy.
