The International Center for Refugee and Migration Studies (ICRMS) organized its First Public Lecture, titled “Introduction to Displaced People, Refugees and International Humanitarian Law,” on 31 August 2026 at the Auditorium, School of Law, BUITEMS City Campus.
Mr. Muhammad Kazim, Liaison Officer at ICRMS, moderated the session. The event formally commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a brief introductory video highlighting ICRMS’s vision, ongoing programs, and its role in supporting refugee-related research and engagement in Balochistan.
Mr. Ahmed Ur Rehman holds an LLM from SOAS and LLB (Hons) from University of London. Moreover, since 2020, he has been serving as the Managing Partner of APEX Law Firm, Quetta, Pakistan. Mr Ahmed Ur Rehman delivered a comprehensive presentation on “Introduction to Displaced People, Refugees and International Humanitarian Law.” He introduced participants to the key concepts of refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons (IDPs), while explaining the three relevant branches of international law: International Humanitarian Law (IHL), International Human Rights Law (IHRL), and International Refugee Law (IRL).
The presentation highlighted the legal definition and protection of refugees, with particular emphasis on the principle of non-refoulement, which protects refugees from being returned to situations where their life or freedom may be threatened. The speaker also discussed the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, and explained Pakistan’s position, noting that Pakistan has not ratified these instruments and largely manages refugee affairs through administrative arrangements and the Foreigners Act, 1946.
The presentation further covered the repatriation of Afghan nationals, the protection challenges faced by displaced populations, the growing global displacement crisis, and the protection gap concerning internally displaced persons. Emerging challenges such as climate-induced displacement were also discussed. The session concluded by encouraging participants to reflect on Pakistan’s refugee policies, international legal obligations, and the need for effective legal and humanitarian protection mechanisms for displaced populations.
Following the presentation, a Question-and-Answer Session was conducted. Participants actively engaged in the discussion and asked questions related to refugees, displaced populations, humanitarian protection, and International Humanitarian Law. The interactive session provided an opportunity for participants to clarify concepts discussed during the lecture and share their perspectives on refugee-related challenges.
The session proceeded with concluding remarks by Ms. Tahira Awan, Senior Protection Assistant, UNHCR. She appreciated the efforts of ICRMS in organizing the public lecture and highlighted the importance of awareness, protection, and humanitarian assistance for displaced populations. She also emphasized the significance of collaboration among academic institutions, humanitarian organizations, and other relevant stakeholders in addressing refugee-related issues.
Following Ms. Tahira Awan’s remarks, Prof. Dr. Zahid Rauf, Director, ICRMS-BUITEMS, delivered the vote of thanks. He expressed his gratitude to the Campus Director, Syed Agha Zahoor Shah, the ICRMS team, the Resource Person, participants, and all those who contributed to the successful organization of the public lecture. He particularly acknowledged the valuable contribution of Mr. Ahmed Ur Rehman for delivering an informative presentation and engaging with the participants.
As a token of appreciation, Prof. Dr. Zahid Rauf presented a shield to Mr. Ahmed Ur Rehman, the Resource Person, in recognition of his valuable contribution to the public lecture. A shield was also presented to Syed Agha Zahoor Shah, Director, BUITEMS City Campus, in appreciation of his support and cooperation in facilitating the event.
At the conclusion of the event, certificates and shields were distributed by ICRMS. A total of 74 participants attended, including 43 males and 31 females.
Reported by Muhammad Asif
Reporting Associate
