Pakistani faith leaders call to uphold fair, equal treatment for all nations at IRF Summit in USA

The faiths leaders of Pakistan, united in commitment to the principles of human rights and religious freedom, urge the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit 2024 to uphold fair and equal treatment for all nations.

A joint-declaration, addressed by Co-Chair of IRF Roundtable Pakistan, Allama Muhammad Ahsan Siddiqui on behalf of the Pakistani faith leaders at the summit, held in Washington D.C. United States of America (USA) from January 30 to 31, called upon nations across the globe to foster an environment where individuals can freely practice their faith without fear of discrimination or persecution.

Recognizing religious freedom as a fundamental human right, the Pakistani faith leaders affirmed the significance of diversity and pluralism in the tapestry of global societies, respecting the unique beliefs and traditions that contribute to the richness of humanity.

They advocated for an inclusive approach that promotes mutual understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among people of different religious backgrounds.

They appealed to governments and international bodies to collaborate in the pursuit of policies that safeguard religious minorities, ensuring their rights are protected and that they can participate fully in society.

In this spirit, the Pakistani faith leaders committed to fostering dialogue and cooperation among religious communities, seeking common ground that transcends religious differences and fosters a world where individuals of every faith can live with dignity and respect.

They expressed their deep concern regarding the human rights situation in various regions globally calling upon the international community to address issues that adversely affect religious freedom and fundamental human rights.

They faith leaders strongly implored the IRF and international community to take decisive action against the desecration of the Holy Quran occurring in certain Western countries. They said such acts not only offend the religious sentiments of millions but also undermine the principles of respect and tolerance. They urged for concrete measures be implemented to prevent and address these incidents, fostering an environment where freedom of expression is balanced with the imperative to protect sacred religious texts and places to uphold the dignity of diverse faiths.

Recognizing the importance of promoting peace, justice, and respect for all individuals, the faith leaders emphasized the need for impartial investigations into situations where human rights violations, including those impacting religious freedom. They said it is their collective plea that international bodies, including IRF should take prompt and earnest action to ensure the protection and well-being of communities facing adversity.

Expressing their serious concerns, the faith leaders questioned why the international community including the USA has not spoken out yet against the dire situation in Gaza. They argued that their lethargic attitude towards the issue not only compromises its credibility but also raises doubts about its commitment to upholding religious freedom universally.

The Gaza conflict, characterized by the loss of innocent lives and destruction of religious and cultural heritage, they said, is deemed by the faith leaders as a critical litmus test for the IRF's & USCIRF commitment to its mandate.

They collectively urged the IRF in addressing the situation in Gaza as the ongoing conflicts not only pose a threat to fundamental human rights but also severely impact religious freedom. It is imperative that efforts be intensified to ensure a just and inclusive resolution of Palestine issue that safeguards the rights of all individuals, irrespective of their faith, in accordance with the principles of IRF, they added.

They accused Israel and its allies for fueling the conflict on the basis of religious sentiments posing a grave threat with potential global repercussions.

The faith leaders said the IRF's intervention is essential to promote a just resolution that transcends religious divisions, ensuring the well-being of all communities involved and preventing the dire consequences that a protracted conflict on religious grounds could unleash worldwide.

They earnestly called upon the IRF to recognize and commend nations that are steadfastly advancing religious pluralism. They highlighted Pakistan, in particular, for achieving significant milestones in fostering an inclusive environment for minority communities, ensuring their well-being across various aspects of life. They said it is crucial that the global community appreciates these concrete steps and encourages further efforts to promote religious harmony and tolerance, reinforcing the values of diversity and coexistence.

The IRF Pakistan delegation led by Co-Chair IRF Roundtable Pakistan Allama Muhammad Ahsan Siddiqui, was comprised of Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Syed Abdul Khabir Azad, Muslim Christian Federation International Chairman, Qazi Abdul Qadeer Kahmosh, Caretaker Federal Minister for Human Rights, Kahlil George, Jamait Ahle Hadith Pakistan President Allama Hisham Elahi Zaheer, Pastor Anwar Fazal, (Isaac TV) Peace Center Lahore President Father James Channan, Pastor Amjad Farooq, Pakistan Hindu Council Chief Coordinator Karshan Lal, Media Anchorperson, Imtiaz Mir, Daisy Amjad Farooq, Pastor Nasir John, Asif Masi , Kashif Mirza, Ameer Maavia Dar, and Seemab Asif.