New Delhi, March 22: Pakistan has been included among the nations in the newly formed “Board of Peace,” initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump to seek a lasting resolution for peace in the Gaza Strip. However, its record of religious persecution and support for terrorism raises serious questions about its role as a “peace ambassador.”
A recent report from the Gatestone Institute paints a troubling picture of the situation for religious minorities in Pakistan. It reveals a disturbing increase in violence, discrimination, and persecution against Christians, Hindus, and other non-Muslim communities, making the country one of the “most dangerous places” for them.
The report indicates that the past year has deepened the crisis for minorities. Incidents of mob violence have surged, and perpetrators often escape punishment, receiving “almost complete impunity.” Particularly, accusations of blasphemy against the Christian community frequently escalate, leading to collective punishment, including church burnings, attacks on homes, and destruction of livelihoods.
The report also highlights cases of forced conversions, abductions, and the forced marriages of underage Hindu and Christian girls. Victimized families face limited legal options and are often subjected to threats and administrative bias.
One notable case involves the suspicious death of 21-year-old Christian farmer Markus Masih, who was allegedly harassed by his employers but was later ruled a suicide. This incident garnered international attention.
Following this, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recommended that the U.S. government re-designate Pakistan as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) due to severe violations of religious freedom.
Other incidents mentioned in the report include the murder of Christian youth Waqas Masih in March 2025, the alleged torture and death of Kashif Masih in May 2025, and the death of Waqas Salamat in 2024, all highlighting the severity of violence against minorities.
Additionally, the report addresses numerous cases of abduction and forced conversion of underage girls in Sindh and Punjab during 2025. The case of 12-year-old Saba Shafiq, who was abducted and subsequently converted and married, is particularly alarming.
The report concludes that under such circumstances, Pakistan’s inclusion in any “peace board” or global peace mechanism raises significant questions about its credibility.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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