By: John Bosco
As the world marked International Tolerance Day on 16 November, observers and rights advocates reflected on the rising concerns surrounding intolerance, discrimination, and sectarian violence in Pakistan. The day, established by UNESCO and the United Nations in 1995, aims to promote respect for cultural and religious diversity, encourage peaceful coexistence, and warn societies of the dangers of hate crimes, extremism, and persecution.
In Pakistan, rights groups note a widening gap between the country’s historic traditions of pluralism and the present climate of suspicion and hostility faced by religious minorities. Independent observers and international organisations have reported recurring incidents of mob violence, arbitrary arrests, and legal actions disproportionately affecting communities such as Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Ahmadis, Shias, and others.
Although Pakistan’s social fabric once reflected greater inter-community interaction, analysts point to a combination of political, legal, and institutional factors that have contributed to growing social division.
The constitutional changes of 1974, followed by the Islamisation policies of the 1980s, placed religion at the centre of state identity and shaped subsequent interpretations of citizenship and belonging. The country’s blasphemy laws, broad in scope and severe in penalties, continue to be misused, often resulting in mob attacks long before formal judicial processes begin.
Minority communities that historically maintained a low profile, such as Parsis and Sikhs, also report a shrinking space for religious pluralism. Though relatively fewer blasphemy-related allegations have been directed at them, these groups share the broader impact of rising intolerance. Parsis, known for their philanthropy and contributions to urban development, and Sikhs, recognised for their service-oriented traditions and economic role in agriculture and trade, have expressed concern over the wider societal shift.
Forced conversions and coerced marriages of minority girls continue to be reported in several regions, highlighting systemic vulnerabilities. Weak or inconsistent law enforcement has further enabled mob reactions, with police often unable to intervene effectively during blasphemy-related accusations. In recent years, several high-profile incidents of lynching and attacks on places of worship have underscored the risks faced by vulnerable communities.
Education experts also link rising intolerance to social segregation and limited exposure to diverse groups. Predominantly single-sex schooling, narrow curricula in many madrassas, and limited inter-community interaction contribute to the development of stereotypes and social distance among young people.
Historically, the Indian subcontinent was shaped by a rich mix of religious and cultural traditions, including Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and various regional faiths. Sufi and Bhakti movements provided shared spiritual spaces, and inter-community exchanges formed the foundation of markets, schools, shrines, and civic institutions. Christian missions contributed to education and healthcare, Sikh communities played a central role in trade and agriculture, and Parsis were instrumental in business, philanthropy, and modern urban growth.
As International Tolerance Day is observed worldwide, commentators emphasise the need for Pakistan to strengthen institutional protections, ensure fair application of laws, promote inclusive education, and foster responsible leadership. Reinforcing values of coexistence, they argue, remains essential for building a peaceful and stable society.