In many developed nations, equality transcends race, color, religion, and other divides, with respect rooted in humanity. However, Pakistan presents a contrasting reality, with stark disparities between the rights of its minority and majority populations.
Minorities in Pakistan, particularly Christians, face severe socio-political and religious discrimination, with numerous documented violations of basic human rights. Among these challenges are forced marriages, coerced religious conversions, physical violence, and extrajudicial killings—often exacerbated by the misuse of blasphemy laws. Despite these alarming issues, the government frequently denies their existence. A recent statement by Allama Tahir Ashrafi, Chairperson of the Pakistan Ulema Council, dismissed claims of forced marriages and conversions in Pakistan. This assertion contrasts sharply with findings from organizations like the Catholic News Agency and various NGOs, which estimate over 1,000 such cases annually. Experts believe this figure underrepresents the problem, as incidents in rural and less accessible areas often go unreported, suppressed by local pressures.
In Punjab, home to Pakistan's largest Christian minority population, the situation remains particularly dire. Over the past two years, numerous incidents of forced marriages and conversions have been reported, yet elected Christian representatives in the Punjab Assembly have made little headway in addressing these issues. In one harrowing case in Sialkot, four Christian members of parliament failed to register an FIR for a forced conversion case, leaving the victim’s family no choice but to flee due to intimidation by the perpetrator’s family.
The plight of Pakistani minorities has drawn the attention of global human rights organizations. In October 2024, the 42nd annual meeting of the United Nations International Human Rights Committee in Geneva declared the situation “alarming.” The committee also criticized Pakistan's National Human Rights Commission for its inadequate response. Similarly, diplomatic efforts have intensified. On October 4, 2024, an American delegation, including Deputy Assistant Secretary Jacobson and other political experts, met Punjab’s provincial minister Ramesh Singh to address minority rights. EU Ambassador Dr. Reena Kavinka, during her October 28 visit to Lahore, not only met government officials but also engaged with Christian religious leaders to gain firsthand insights into the struggles of minorities.
Political leaders in Western countries have also taken up the cause. On November 27, 2024, U.S. Congressman Clay Higgins sent a strongly worded letter to President Joe Biden, urging decisive action against the persecution of Christians in Pakistan. British MP Jim Shannon, Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group, raised the issue in Parliament through a resolution on December 2, 2024, demanding the UK government play an active role in improving conditions for Pakistani minorities. Additionally, the European Union’s Institution Capital Authority, led by Sebastian Loren, met with Punjab’s Minister for Human Rights and Minority Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, on December 4, 2024. The delegation proposed joint projects to enhance the economic standing of minorities in Punjab.
One glaring concern is the exclusion of Christian representatives from key meetings addressing minority rights in Punjab. Despite being the largest minority group in the province, with a population of approximately 2.6 million, Christians are notably absent from discussions and decision-making processes. This raises pressing questions: Which minorities are being consulted? Whose welfare is being prioritized?
As international organizations and foreign governments amplify their voices, the Pakistani government faces mounting pressure to address the grievances of its minority communities. Concrete steps, including policy reforms, increased representation, and legal protections, are essential to ensure the safety and dignity of all citizens, regardless of their faith. The global spotlight on Pakistan’s human rights record offers a critical opportunity for introspection and change. Whether this will translate into meaningful action remains to be seen.
