Pakistan commemorates National Minorities Day every year with a firm resolve to acknowledge the invaluable presence of minorities, their inclusion in the national mainstream, and their significant contributions to the national progress and prosperity.
The minorities living in Pakistan are an integral part of our national fabric and reflect the true beauty of our diverse social and cultural landscape.
On 11 August 1947, while addressing the historic inaugural session of the Constituent Assembly, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah unequivocally affirmed the rights of minorities in Pakistan:
“You are free; you are free to go to your temples, you are free to go to your mosques or to any other place of worship in the State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion or caste or creed—that has nothing to do with the business of the State.”
These historic words of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah hold an enduring and unforgettable place in Pakistan’s social order, system of governance and religious ethos.
This day also serves as a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to unity among different segments and communities of society, peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and equal opportunities for progress for all. Pakistan is a diverse society where people belonging to different faiths, cultures, nationalities and traditions live together in harmony.
From the Pakistan Movement and the creation of Pakistan to the present day, minority communities have played a pivotal role in the country’s progress and national development. They have rendered invaluable services in the economic, educational, social, cultural and political spheres.
The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan guarantees the protection of the rights and interests of minority communities. These constitutional safeguards are further reinforced by an effective legal framework. The country’s laws contain effective provisions for the protection of places of worship of minorities, prohibition of discriminatory practices, and prevention of hate speech.
The enactment of the National Commission for Minorities Act, 2025 to safeguard the rights of minorities is undoubtedly a significant national milestone. Under the aboce stated Act, the Ministry of Human Rights is taking the necessary steps for the establishment of an independent commission. The Commission will play its role in redressing grievances, overseeing constitutional and legal safeguards, making recommendations regarding government policies and legislation, monitoring matters relating to places of worship and employment quotas, and promoting equality and inclusion.
To promote interfaith harmony and social cohesion, the Interfaith Harmony Policy 2025 has been introduced, aimed at protecting religious freedom, promoting interfaith dialogue, and ensuring equal opportunities without discrimination. The Government is also implementing the National Policy for Countering Violent Extremism 2024.
The Ministry of Human Rights, in consultation with all relevant stakeholders, has also introduced the National Action Plan for Human Rights 2026, which includes specific measures for the protection and promotion of the rights of minority communities.
The Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with the provincial governments, relevant institutions and civil society, reaffirms its collective resolve to continue making every possible effort to protect the rights of every citizen, particularly those belonging to minority communities, ensure equal opportunities, and advance towards the goal of a peaceful, tolerant and united society.
