Human Rights Day: end religious hatred and discrimination
In Faisalabad, two seminars focused on minority protection and social and religious discrimination. Young people need to be heard more in society. Action is needed against custodial torture, extrajudicial murders, and political victimisation.
Faisalabad (AsiaNews) – A number of Pakistani associations met yesterday in Faisalabad to observe International Human Rights Day in a country marked by more and more human rights violations, threats and social and religious discrimination.
One of the groups, Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP), is a leading minority rights advocate and is under government attack.
For HRFP President Naveed Walter, equality should be a top priority for every citizen regardless of religion, race, language, demography, birth, gender, opinion, sect, caste, physical or mental disabilities etc.
Two seminars were held in Faisalabad – one at the local HRFP office; the other at the Faisalabad Metropolitan Corporation Iqbal Hall – attended by activists, students, youth, public officials, lawyers, and members of district action committees.
The two conferences were organised to celebrate the inalienable rights and fundamental freedoms of every human being, including some not protected in Pakistan, such as freedom of thought and expression, the right of association, peaceful assembly and to live an existence free from any form of discrimination.
“Minorities, women and children are considered soft targets,” noted Walter. “Unfortunately, whilst young people represent majority of the population, they are affected by conflicts, exclusions and economic instabilities which make it harder for them to be heard by the authorities. They have no influence on decision-making processes.”
“This day is designed especially for them, to involve young people in society through groups or individually, despite the challenges they face – to appeal, teach and train them to stand up against acts of hatred and all forms of discrimination.”
“Equality and equity are the bases of the Islamic faith,” said Muhammad Ali, Faisalabad Deputy Commissioner. This “is the core of every human rights document and Pakistan is trying its level best to ensure it”, including in a place like Kashmir where Muslims face India’s “state aggression”.
In Kashmir, “people are abused by the authorities and become vulnerable,” explained Nazia Sardar, a researcher and director of the Association of Women for Awareness and Motivation.
Kashmiris “face different challenges to survive and practise their fundamental freedoms. Because of their faith or creed, they suffer from exploitation and discrimination and are ignored by their respective States,” i.e. India and Pakistan.
For Yasir Nazir, Assistant District Public Prosecutor Faisalabad, "laws exist and institutions work according to their capacities. Special attention is needed to mitigate challenges such as extrajudicial murders, custodial torture and deaths, political victimisation and hatred against religious minorities.”
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