Senate seeks action to protect Pakistan’s historical archives

Islamabad: Pakistan’s historical records and national documents came under Senate focus as lawmakers raised concerns over the protection, preservation and possible illegal movement of valuable archival material.

The Senate Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation reviewed new rules for the National Archives and called for stronger measures to protect important historical documents from damage, smuggling and misuse.

The committee, chaired by Senator Naseema Ehsan, examined the draft National Archives Rules and Archival Material Preservation and Export Control Rules during a meeting at Parliament House.

Officials informed the committee that under the proposed rules, documents of major national importance would be officially declared archival material after 25 years. This step would provide stronger legal protection and help prevent the illegal removal of historical records from Pakistan.

The committee stressed that old documents are not just papers but a valuable record of the country’s history, identity and national memory. Members emphasized the need to create awareness among young people about protecting historical records.

The committee directed that the draft National Archives Research and Reference Rules 2026 should be finalized after considering members’ recommendations. Chairperson Senator Naseema Ehsan also directed the Cabinet Division to consult provincial governments before finalizing the rules to develop a coordinated system across Pakistan.

During the meeting, officials briefed the committee about efforts to modernize the National Archives of Pakistan. Officials informed the committee that around nine million archival documents have already been digitized and the next phase will focus on making these records available to the public through an online electronic library.

The committee appreciated the digitization project but stressed that strong cybersecurity and data protection measures must be included to protect digital records from misuse or unauthorized access. Officials informed the committee that a Rs 285 million modernization project is underway to improve fire safety systems, lighting and environmental controls at the National Archives.

However, officials highlighted a shortage of skilled archivists due to low salaries and limited career opportunities in the field. The committee recommended cooperating with universities and academic institutions to introduce specialized courses in archival preservation and improve professional opportunities for experts.

The committee also reviewed rules related to the preservation, exhibition and export control of archival material owned by both government institutions and private individuals. Members welcomed the introduction of a licensing system aimed at controlling the illegal movement of historical records outside Pakistan.

The committee expressed particular concern over archival collections held in provincial areas and stressed the need for their digitization and proper preservation through cooperation with provincial authorities. The chairperson directed that the legal framework should include stronger penalties for smuggling archival material.

The committee also called for disaster management plans to protect historical records from floods, fires and other natural risks. During the meeting, officials also briefed the committee on the progress of the Balochistan Child Protection Commission. The committee was informed that the Balochistan Cabinet had approved Child Protection Rules 2026, while legislation related to child marriage was under consultation.

The Ministry of Human Rights informed the committee about the lack of rehabilitation facilities for children affected by drug dependency and support centres for girls abandoned by their families. The committee stressed the need for awareness campaigns about safe social media use among children and encouraged parents to play an active role in protecting children online.

Senator Naseema Ehsan appreciated the steps taken for child protection and emphasized that continuous efforts are required to safeguard children’s rights.