GENEVA — United Nations human rights experts on Sept. 7 urged Pakistan to address ongoing reports of discrimination, violence, and legal restrictions targeting the Ahmadiyya Muslim community. They called on the Pakistani government to protect the group and fulfill its international human rights obligations.
“We are deeply concerned by persistent reports that members of the Ahmadiyya community continue to face harassment, criminal prosecution, violence, and exclusion because of their religious identity,” the experts said in a statement.
The experts cited troubling reports of attacks on Ahmadi places of worship, desecration of graves, interference with religious observance, arrests, and prosecutions. They also condemned hate speech targeting the community and highlighted the need to prevent violence, ensure accountability, and protect vulnerable groups.
“Pakistan must break the pattern of impunity that has allowed perpetrators of attacks and incitement to hatred and violence to act without restraint,” the experts said.
The experts also expressed concern that Ahmadis face systemic discrimination, including during key religious festivals such as Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. They emphasized that no one should face arrest, detention, or prosecution for their religious practices.
The statement urged the government of Pakistan to provide equal protection under the law for all individuals, regardless of religion or belief, and to review legislation inconsistent with its international human rights obligations. The experts called for sustained efforts to combat religious intolerance, promote diversity, and ensure the safety and dignity of all belief communities.
UN experts, including those focused on freedom of religion, minority rights, and peaceful assembly, stressed their readiness to engage in dialogue with the Pakistani government to promote inclusion and strengthen protections for minority groups.
The experts serve as part of the UN Special Procedures and work independently to monitor and report on global human rights issues.