News Desk
On August 14, 2024, members of the Pakistani Christian community in the Netherlands held a significant demonstration in The Hague, gathering in front of the residence of the Pakistani Ambassador. Organized by the Action Committee of Christians of the Netherlands, the protest was led by key figures in the community, including Watson Gill, Moon Samuel, Azeem Masih, Pastor Imran Gill, Ilyas, Aneel Naeem, Shamim Lawrence, Riaz Leersum, Ijaz Mathew Zulfikar, Anson, Eubert, and Gasper Daniel.
The peaceful protest saw a large turnout, including women and children, all united in their concerns about the ongoing persecution of Christians in Pakistan. The demonstration began with a prayer led by Pastor William Pagani, setting a solemn tone for the gathering.
Protesters voiced their concerns on several critical issues affecting Christians in Pakistan. They called for an immediate end to the abduction of Christian girls, who are often forcibly converted to Islam and married against their will. They also urged the Pakistani government to take firm action against the practice of forced conversions, which has devastated many Christian families.
The misuse of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws was another major concern highlighted during the protest. Demonstrators condemned the laws for being weaponized against Christians, leading to false accusations and severe punishments. Additionally, the community expressed their frustration overzero systemic discrimination and demanded equal rights and protection under the law.
re The demonstration concluded at 1 PM with a prayer led by Watson Gill, a prominent figure in the Pakistani Christian community in the Netherlands and one of the event’s key organizers. Gill emphasized the importancef of continued solidarity and called for international attention to the plight of Christians in Pakistan, urging the global community to support their cause.
The Action Committee of Christians of the Netherlands announced that they will continue their advocacy for the rights of Christians in Pakistan, hoping that today’s demonstration will prompt the Pakistani government to take meaningful action on these critical issues.