Christians in Pakistan demand constitutional equality and an end to religious discrimination

What are the main demands made by protesters on the streets?

The protesters presented a letter with 11 fundamental points for the survival of minorities in the country. Among the demands is the amendment of Articles 41 and 91 of the Constitution, which currently prevent non-Muslim citizens from holding the positions of president or prime minister. Furthermore, the group calls for greater political representation, protection of places of worship, reforms in the school curriculum to avoid prejudice and the definitive ban on the forced conversion of minors, a recurring problem that generates insecurity among Christian families.

What motivates the insecurity of the Christian community in Pakistani territory?

The sense of fear is fueled by a history of extreme violence, which includes mob lynchings and attacks motivated by accusations of blasphemy. During protests in Karachi, posters displayed photos of murdered leaders and victims of persecution. Blasphemy law is a legal concept that punishes offenses against the official religion, but which, in practice, is often used to persecute minorities. Activists say the government is limited to holding official ceremonies of interfaith harmony while real violence and systemic discrimination continue to grow.

How did National Minorities Day come about and what does it mean?

The date was established in 2009 to honor the legacy of Shahbaz Bhatti, the first Catholic to hold the position of federal minister for minorities in Pakistan. Bhatti was a tireless defender of religious freedom and was murdered by extremists in 2011. The choice of August 11th refers to a famous 1947 speech made by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the country’s founder, in which he declared that all citizens would be free to worship according to their beliefs. Protesters now demand that this promise of the nation’s founding be finally fulfilled by the State.

What is the current demographic situation of religious minorities in Pakistan?

Official data reveals a drastic reduction in the proportion of non-Muslim citizens over the decades. In 1951, shortly after independence, minorities represented 14.2% of the total population. According to the most recent 2023 census, that number has dropped to just 3.5%, out of a total population of around 247.5 million people. This small group is made up of Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Ahmadis, Bahá’ís, Zoroastrians and Buddhists, who fight to maintain their traditions and basic rights amid a scenario of growing intolerance and lack of representation.