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Written question asked by Lord Alton of Liverpool (Crossbench) on Monday, 21 October 2019, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 November 2019. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 4 November 2019 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Pakistan: Minority Groups

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to provide training for Pakistani minority groups and non-governmental organisations on how to (1) organise, campaign and lobby for their rights, and (2) respond to the shrinking of civil society space in Pakistan; and how the persecution of Ahmadi and Christian minorities was raised during the visit to Pakistan by HRH the Duke of Cambridge.

Answer

The British Government provides training, workshops and seminars on Freedom of Religion or Belief in Pakistan, including to representatives of minority groups. These aim to increase awareness of rights and constitutional safeguards, and to strengthen connections between minority communities and local media. The British Government continues to support civil society and non-governmental organisations lobbying the Government of Pakistan to honour its international commitments. Department for International Development will work with local civil society organisations to promote respect, tolerance and inclusion of minorities and marginalised groups through its AAWAZ II programme.

While in Pakistan, Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge discussed interfaith harmony with faith leaders from across Pakistan’s various religious communities, including Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Shia and Sunni. Discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities present in promoting interfaith relations in Pakistan, as well as how faith representatives can work together to build acceptance and tolerance in Pakistani society. They also spent time with members of the Kalash community in the Bumburet Valley of Chitral.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL233
Session
2019-19
Subjects
Human rights Minority groups Pakistan Religious freedom Non-governmental organisations Christianity Royal visits William, Prince of Wales Ahmadiyya
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk