Anti-Terrorism Law and Policy in Pakistan

Abstract

The Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997 in Pakistan and the Supreme Court's interpretation of it in light of the principle of legality in criminal and human rights law are analysed critically. As a result, we concluded that the Anti-Terrorism Act's definition of terrorism does not meet legal requirements, and the precedents of the Supreme Court of Pakistan have only contributed to further confuse the situation. If Pakistan does not modify its definition of terrorism in conformity with legality and human rights principles, overly broad definitions of terrorism may result in violations of human rights.