Asma Jahangir was a renowned Pakistani human rights lawyer and social activist. Known for her fearless advocacy for justice, women’s rights, and rule of law, she co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and earned global recognition for her legal leadership and human rights work.
Even in 2025, Pakistan continues to celebrate Asma Jahangir’s legacy as a fearless human rights icon and legal champion whose fight for justice, democracy, and freedom of expression inspires activists nationwide. She co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), served as UN Special Rapporteur, and won prestigious global awards for her courage and impact.
Colleagues and successors at the AGHS Legal Aid Cell the legal aid network she helped build continue to champion legal services for the marginalized, carrying forward her vision of dignity and justice for all.
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Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Government of Pakistan) – 2012
Winner
Recognition: Outstanding contributions to human rights, law, and social justice
Role: Human Rights Lawyer & Activist
UN Human Rights Prize – 2018
Winner
Recognition: Advocacy for human rights, women’s empowerment, and minority protection
Role: Founder, Human Rights Commission of Pakistan
Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought (European Parliament) – 2014
Winner
Recognition: Exceptional courage and commitment to human rights and justice
Role: Lawyer & Human Rights Activist
Gwangju Prize for Human Rights – 2006
Winner
Recognition: Promotion of democracy, justice, and human rights in Pakistan
Role: Chairperson, Human Rights Commission of Pakistan
Simone de Beauvoir Prize for Women’s Freedom – 2012
Winner
Recognition: Advocacy and protection of women’s rights and social justice
Role: Human Rights Lawyer & Activist
Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders – 1995
Winner
Recognition: Courageous defense of human rights and marginalized communities
Role: Lawyer & Activist
UNESCO Human Rights Award – 2005
Winner
Recognition: Significant impact in advancing justice, equality, and human rights
Role: Human Rights Advocate
The Alison Des Forges Award for Extraordinary Activism – 2010
Winner
Recognition: Dedicated human rights work and protection of minorities
Role: Human Rights Lawyer & Activist
Full Name: Asma Jahangir
Birthdate: 27 January 1952
Birthplace / Hometown: Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Background: Born into a well-educated family in Lahore, Asma Jahangir was inspired early on by social justice issues. She developed a strong passion for human rights, equality, and the rule of law.
Schooling: Attended Convent of Jesus and Mary, Lahore
Higher Education:
Bachelor’s in Law from Punjab University, Lahore
LLM (Master of Laws) from Punjab University, Lahore
Professional Training: Gained expertise in constitutional law, human rights, and advocacy through years of legal practice and activism.
Profession: Lawyer, human rights activist, social advocate
Key Roles:
Co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) in 1986.
Served as UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in various international forums.
Provided legal aid to women, minorities, and political prisoners, fighting against extrajudicial killings, domestic violence, and human rights violations.
Marital Status: Married to Rashid Rehman, a prominent lawyer (later killed in 1995).
Children: They had two children.
Family Influence: Raised in a family that valued education, justice, and public service, which shaped her lifelong commitment to human rights.
Death Date: 11 February 2018
Place of Death: Lahore, Pakistan
Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest
Burial: Laid to rest in Karachi, with thousands attending her funeral, honoring her legacy in human rights activism.
Asma Jahangir’s lifelong commitment brought significant reforms in women’s rights, minority protections, and the rule of law in Pakistan.
Her fearless advocacy inspired generations of lawyers, activists, and citizens to challenge injustice and fight for equality.
Asma Jahangir is celebrated as a global icon of human rights, particularly in Pakistan and South Asia.Numerous articles, documentaries, and social media pages commemorate her work, inspiring lawyers, activists, and students of human rights worldwide.
Asma Jahangir was a renowned Pakistani human rights lawyer, social activist, and politician, known for her lifelong fight for civil liberties and justice.
Asma Jahangir was famous for defending women, minorities, children, and marginalized communities, and challenging authoritarian regimes in Pakistan.
Asma Jahangir was born on January 27, 1952, in Lahore, Pakistan.
Asma Jahangir co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and served as its chairperson, promoting human rights and rule of law.
Asma Jahangir received multiple awards, including the Right Livelihood Award (2014), Hilal-i-Imtiaz, and Ramon Magsaysay Award for her human rights work.
Yes , Asma Jahangir served on international human rights bodies, including UN commissions, advocating for global human rights protections.
Asma Jahangir ran for the position of President of Pakistan in 2013, promoting human rights and democracy.
Asma Jahangir passed away on February 11, 2018, in Lahore, Pakistan.
Asma Jahangir was known for fearless advocacy, legal expertise, and unwavering support for justice, even in the face of threats.
Asma Jahangir inspired generations to stand up for justice, equality, and human rights, leaving a legacy of courage and resilience.
“I have always believed that justice and human rights must never be compromised. My mission has been to stand for the oppressed, speak truth to power, and inspire courage in every fight for equality.”
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