ISLAMABAD — December 11, 2025: Journalist Saqib Bashir has reported that the hearing in human-rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir’s case is set to begin shortly — and that the Ambassador of Norway arrived at the courthouse to observe the proceedings.
The unusual presence of a foreign diplomat at a domestic court hearing has triggered criticism from several quarters. Legal experts and civil-society observers argue that such involvement may amount to a violation of diplomatic norms and could influence the perception of judicial neutrality and fairness.
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What is the case about?
Imaan Mazari-Hazir, a prominent human-rights lawyer and activist, has faced multiple summonses and charges in recent months. International watchdogs have expressed concern over what appears to be repeated judicial harassment linked to her human-rights work.
Given the sensitivity of the hearing and Mazari-Hazir’s high public profile, the presence of foreign observers—including diplomats—adds an additional layer of complexity and controversy.
Diplomatic norms & judicial independence
Under international diplomatic standards, representatives of foreign governments typically do not intervene or publicly associate themselves with domestic legal proceedings — especially during ongoing trials.
In Pakistan, the conduct of court hearings — including who may attend, and under what conditions media coverage is permitted — is regulated by established court rules. For example, the Supreme Court of Pakistan (SC) recently updated its code of conduct to limit interactions between judges and media to preserve judicial impartiality.
Given these frameworks, the arrival of the Norway ambassador at the hearing could be seen as walking a fine line — or potentially overstepping accepted diplomatic boundaries.
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Reaction & concerns
Critics worry that foreign presence at the trial might compromise the perception of judicial independence and fuel claims of external interference. They argue that true justice must be delivered without outside pressure or influence, whether from foreign governments, media, or vested interests.
Supporters of Mazari-Hazir, meanwhile, view the diplomatic observation as solidarity from the international community — especially considering her status as a recognized human-rights defender. International organisations monitoring her case have already called for a fair trial, transparency, and protection of fundamental rights.
What next
As the hearing proceeds, attention will turn to how the court manages the international presence in its courtroom. Will all parties receive equal opportunity to present their case? Will diplomatic presence unduly influence proceedings — or will it simply underscore global attention and pressure for a fair outcome?
The unfolding events may prompt broader debate on balancing respect for diplomatic engagement, protection of human-rights defenders, and preservation of judicial sovereignty and impartiality in Pakistan.
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