Imran Khan’s Son Qasim Khan Sparks Controversy by Calling for Revocation of Pakistan’s GSP+ Status Alongside Baloch Leader Naseem Baloch

Geneva/Islamabad (March 26, 2026): Qasim Khan, son of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, has ignited a fresh political storm after appearing at a side event of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva and urging the European Union to withdraw Pakistan’s GSP+ (Generalized System of Preferences Plus) trade status.
Seated alongside Dr. Naseem Baloch, chairman of the Baloch National Movement (BNM) — a figure often accused of separatist leanings and anti-Pakistan activities — Qasim Khan criticized Pakistan’s human rights record. He cited the imprisonment of his father, Imran Khan, in Adiala Jail as a key example of alleged violations, describing the revocation of GSP+ as “the most important step” to pressure Pakistan.
Videos and images circulating widely on social media show Qasim Khan participating in the event with Dr. Naseem Baloch, triggering a massive backlash online. A large number of users have labeled the move as “anti-Pakistan lobbying” and accused it of undermining national interests.
Critics argue that suspending GSP+ — which provides duty-free access to the EU market for Pakistani exports worth billions of euros annually, supporting millions of jobs in the textile and other sectors — would amount to economic sabotage. Political circles and economic experts have strongly condemned the demand, warning of severe repercussions for Pakistan’s economy.
While some view the intervention as an attempt to internationalize pressure for Imran Khan’s release, opponents see it as aligning with separatist elements against the state. The development has sparked heated debates on social media platforms, with questions being raised about the implications for Pakistan’s sovereignty and international image.
No official statement has been issued yet by Imran Khan or the PTI leadership on the matter. The incident occurred during a UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva.