Pakistan’s state complicity fuels persecution of minorities

Pakistan is facing a growing crisis of religious intolerance and systemic persecution, according to a recent report. Despite global condemnation and calls for reform, the country’s inability to protect vulnerable communities has resulted in violence, destruction of religious sites, and a society increasingly divided by hate.

The report highlights the Pakistani State’s role in persecuting Hindus, Christians, Ahmadis, Shia Muslims, Sikhs, and critical journalists. It also points to the contradiction of Pakistan continuing to benefit from the European Union’s special trade status under the GSP+ arrangement, despite its human rights abuses.

Concerns about press freedom were raised after Pakistan ranked 158th on the World Press Freedom Index, with numerous violations against journalists. The persecution of religious minorities, especially Hindus and Ahmadis, has intensified, with attacks on places of worship and forced conversions of young girls.

Despite international outcry, Pakistan has not taken significant action to address these issues, leaving religious minorities at risk and fueling widespread injustice.