A critical analysis of the CPEC and human rights in the context of United Nations obligations

This article presents an analysis of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) based on the international human rights law, focusing on the obligations imposed by the ICCPR, ICESCR, and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. CPEC is frequently described as an exemplary model of strategic infrastructure and economic connectivity. The execution of CPEC has, however, raised significant apprehensions about displacement, environmental destruction, access to justice, and transparency. This article focuses on the inadequacies in CPEC’s governance, particularly the lack of effective mechanisms and grievance redress, in accordance with the jurisprudence from the ICJ, ECtHR, IACtHR, and UN treaty bodies. The article ends with suggestions for ensuring that CPEC follows the UN’s standards for human rights. To protect the rights of vulnerable communities in the project-affected areas, the measures include institutional reforms, procedural protections, and inclusive development.