09/12/2025
PRESS RELEASE
ON HUMAN RIGHTS DAY, MINORITY CONCERN CALLS ON THE GOVERNMENT TO UPHOLD MINORITY RIGHTS IN PAKISTAN
Lahore, Pakistan (9 December 2025): On the occasion of Human Rights Day, Minority Concern calls upon the Government of Pakistan to take concrete and measurable steps to protect and promote the rights of religious minorities across the country. Human Rights Day serves as a global reminder of the universal principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Minority Concern emphasizes that while Pakistan has expressed its commitment to these principles, significant gaps remain in the protection of minorities, who continue to face discrimination, violence, and socioeconomic marginalization.
“Human Rights Day is not just symbolic; it is a moment of accountability,” said Aftab Alexander Mughal, Director of Minority Concern. “Pakistan’s minorities deserve equal dignity, equal protection, and the full opportunity to participate in national life.”
Minority Concern highlights several priority areas where immediate action is needed:
• Strengthening legal protections for minorities, including the effective enforcement of existing constitutional safeguards.
• Preventing the misuse of laws, including legislation that has disproportionately endangered minority communities.
• Ensuring justice and accountability in cases of violence, forced conversions, discrimination, and targeted attacks.
• Promoting inclusive education and social cohesion to counter intolerance and hate speech.
• Expanding economic and political participation for marginalized groups.
The organization also urges the government to collaborate with civil society, human rights defenders, and human rights organizations to align national policies with international human rights obligations.
“If Pakistan wants an inclusive and stable future, the voices and rights of minorities must be at the centre of national priorities,” Mr. Mughal added. “No society can prosper if segments of its population live in fear or exclusion.”
Minority Concern reaffirms its commitment to advocating for a just, pluralistic, and rights-respecting Pakistan for all citizens.
Minority Concern is a UK-based human rights advocacy organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of minorities in Pakistan.
