Concerns are growing over the effects of deforestation on the climate and public health. Activists are speaking out against the loss of green spaces and urban sprawl, which are exacerbating heatwaves, pollution and drought. New regulations to protect trees have been introduced in Sindh and Punjab. Environmentalists: tree planting cannot replace the ecological value of mature forests.
Shakeel and Sammer Masih, sewer cleaners, are the latest victims of workplace fatalities among Christians. Activists denounce the failure to comply with safety protocols. The Bishop of the Sahiwal Baptist Church has spoken out, and the authorities have promised a thorough investigation. Also weighing heavily is the lack of access to education for Christians, who are exploited in dangerous jobs.
One year on from the lightning war of May 2025, India and Pakistan continue to celebrate the conflict as a national victory. But behind the patriotic rhetoric, new military vulnerabilities are emerging, along with a growing arms race and unresolved tensions over Kashmir, terrorism and water resources, whilst diplomatic channels between the two nuclear powers remain virtually frozen.
Whilst Pakistan is in the spotlight for its mediation in the Gulf, the crackdown on civil society continues unabated. A group of activists were detained for several hours; they were due to hold a press conference on an initiative scheduled for 10 May for which they have not yet received permits. Human Rights Commission: “This is not an isolated incident, but a recurring pattern.”
The church organisation set up such centres in St. Michael's Parish. An estimated 400 to 500 out-of-school students between the ages of 6 and 14 are not going to school in the area. Among the causes are poverty, child labour, and climate change. For Father Nobert Nazir, they are “a sign of hope. Education is not a privilege”.
The work affects the property of the historic St. Mark's Church, founded in 1882. For its pastor, Rev Din, three times more land has been taken without the church’s consent. Protesters are calling on Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to act. The protest reflects minority concerns over land rights and the protection of religious property.
