Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Monday, 7 July 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 9 July 2025. It was answered by Hamish Falconer (Labour) on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Pakistan: Religious Freedom

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what recent representations he has made to his Pakistani counterpart on people imprisoned under blasphemy laws for exercising religious beliefs in that country.

Answer: This Government remains deeply concerned by the misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan, particularly where they are used to target individuals for peacefully exercising their religion or belief. We regularly raise this issue at senior levels, urging Pakistani authorities to uphold due process, ensure fair trials, and protect those at risk. In March and June 2025, I raised concerns about freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) with Pakistani ministers. Working with the UK Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, David Smith MP, we are committed to championing the right to FoRB for all around the world - promoting tolerance and mutual respect through our engagement in multilateral organisations, our bilateral work, and our programme funding.

Secondary information