Role of CBOs, NGOs, and INGOs in Providing Free Legal Aid in Pakistan

Abstract

The Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) play an essential role in provision of free legal services in Pakistan especially to marginalized and vulnerable populations. Through these agencies, there is a narrowing of the gap between the citizens and the traditional justice system by creating legal awareness, counseling, and court representation. CBOS work at the grassroots level where they address the quarrels within the community and provide legal literacy to the community. NGOs like the Legal Aid Society and AGHS Legal Aid Cell have the mandates of addressing issues of women's rights, juvenile justice, and human rights abuse. INGOs facilitate these efforts by providing their funding, technical support, and lobbying for legal reforms that are in tandem with the international standards. If combined, these organizations facilitate access to justice, decrease the number of cases in a backlog, and implement changes in the legal system. They play a vital role in a nation where the state does not provide legal assistance, and in most cases, it is not affordable to people experiencing poverty.