The European Union has launched a major initiative to strengthen the rights and inclusion of religious minorities in Pakistan. The project, titled “Together for Tolerance: Strengthening Minority Rights and Inclusion,” is being implemented in Punjab and Sindh. It is led by the Parliamentarians Commission for Human Rights (PCHR) in partnership with the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) and is part of the EU’s wider support for human rights in Pakistan.
As part of the initiative, a Focus Group Discussion was held in Islamabad on “Mapping the Minority Rights Landscape.” The session addressed economic, social, cultural, civil, and political rights of minorities. Executive Director of PCHR Shafique Chaudhry opened the discussion, while Abdul Khalique Shaikh, Secretary at the Ministry of Human Rights, shared detailed steps being taken to implement the Supreme Court’s landmark 2014 judgment that ordered stronger protections for minorities.
Dr. Sebastien Lorion, Acting Head of Cooperation at the EU Mission to Pakistan, highlighted the importance of this collaboration. He reaffirmed that protection of religious minorities is a core EU value, and that Pakistan’s progress under the GSP+ trade agreement depends on its compliance with global human rights treaties, such as the ICCPR (International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights) and ESCR (Economic, Social and Cultural Rights) obligations.
Participants included lawmakers, civil society leaders, academics, human rights experts, and members of minority communities. Officials from various government departments, including the police and Ministry of Human Rights, also contributed. They shared updates on programs that aim to curb discrimination, promote religious harmony, and empower minority groups through education, employment opportunities, and legal protection.
The discussion concluded with a series of evidence-based recommendations to help shape future policy and research. Shafique Chaudhry thanked all participants and expressed hope that their input would guide experts in developing a strong, data-driven report that accurately reflects the current challenges and opportunities for religious minorities in Pakistan.