Next week marks the 10th anniversary of a significant Supreme Court judgement in Pakistan. It called for the rights of religious minorities to be protected, but what impact has it had over the past decade?
Ten years have passed, and the court’s orders are yet to be implemented. The country continues to see persistent violations of freedom of religion or belief. Minority groups still face regular harassment, and are often targets of blasphemy accusations, mob violence, or forced abductions. Even children face systemic discrimination in education settings.
Join us in praying that Pakistan’s new government – formed after an election marred by controversy and disruption – would do more to defend the rights of every citizen.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/Pakistan
Sunday 9 June
Pray that Pakistan’s new government would immediately work to form a National Commission for Minorities, in accordance with international human rights standards. This would serve to empower the voices of minority groups across the country.
Monday 10 June
Give thanks that two Christians, Rocky and Raja, were acquitted of blasphemy on 1 March. A court ruled that the brothers had been framed by two people who held a personal grudge. You may remember that this false blasphemy allegation had a devastating impact, sparking a mob attack on the Christian community in Jaranwala last August. Pray for restoration.
Tuesday 11 June
Christian and Hindu young women and girls are regularly abducted, forcibly married and forcibly converted. Call on the God who rescues to make a way for every girl to be safely returned home.
Wednesday 12 June
Pray that the new government would take practical measures to end abduction and forced marriage, and that it will act decisively to prevent the forced conversions of women and girls from minority communities.
Thursday 13 June
It has been announced that from 2025, students from religious minority communities will be given the opportunity to study their own religion instead of Islamic Studies or Ethics, as is currently the case. Pray that these plans would be realised and signal the start of a fairer educational system in the country.
Friday 14 June
Over the last year, there have been countless incidents of hate speech and incitement to violence against the Ahmadiyya community. These incidents have been perpetrated by both state and non-state actors, and in both online and offline spaces. Pray that this hate speech and violence would transform into peace, and that the government would ensure the rule of law is established.
Saturday 15 June
Heavenly Father, we lift the government of Pakistan to you today. Fill every member with wisdom and justice to establish a new way forward and a fairer future. May they stay true to their election promises and work to protect the freedoms of all citizens.
Amen.