Sarim Burney

Sarim Burney is a Pakistani social activist and philanthropist, known as the founder of Sarim Burney Welfare Trust International advocating for human rights, especially for women and children. However, in June 2024, his career became mired in controversy, including allegations of human trafficking by the United States.

Sarim Burney Welfare Trust International
In 1990, Burney founded Sarim Burney Welfare Trust International. The Trust has been at the forefront of addressing critical issues such as human trafficking while also supporting the rights of women and children, providing disaster relief and legal aid. The Trust has provided tangible support including financial assistance to persons with disabilities and programs to facilitate social integration.

Notable work
Burney's work has been particularly notable in rescuing child camel jockeys and establishing a database to document human rights abuses. The Trust has played an important role in providing shelter and support to the victims of exploitation. His global advocacy efforts have focused on defending the rights of prisoners, particularly those who have been wrongly accused and lack legal representation.

Controversies
Sarim Burney faced a major controversy when he was arrested by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in Karachi on charges of human trafficking. The arrest was made following a complaint by the US government. Burney was detained after arriving in Karachi from America.

Personal life
Sarim Burney is the brother of Ansar Burney, another prominent philanthropist who also served as the Federal Minister for Human Rights in Pakistan's cabinet between 2007 and 2008. However, differences have arisen between the Bernie brothers, particularly over a televised exchange controversy in 2012.