Navigating Socio-Legal Landscapes: Decriminalizing Suicide in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Abstract

This study aims to explore the shift towards decriminalizing suicide in Pakistan, analyzing the legal, social, and religious factors that have shaped the legislative change and its potential implications. Historically, suicide has been criminalized in Pakistan, influenced by both colonial legacy and Islamic principles. However, the recent passage of the 2022 bill to decriminalize suicide marks a shift in societal attitudes towards mental health, prompting a need for legal re-evaluation. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, using primary data from expert interviews and secondary data from legal documents and historical analysis. Open-ended questions were posed to experts to gain insights into the legislative process and societal attitudes. The study finds that the decriminalization is influenced by evolving social perceptions of mental health, legal reforms, and religious discourse, creating a complex dialogue between tradition and liberal values. The paper suggests that suicide should not be regarded as a crime but should be addressed with compassion and individualized legal approaches, considering mental health and socio-cultural contexts in each case.