News Desk
Lahore – The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) hosted an event at the SAFMA auditorium to recognize the commendable contributions of Peter Jacob in the realm of human rights. Jacob was recently awarded the prestigious Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Award, marking the 25th anniversary of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.
Distinguished guests, including journalists, lawyers, human rights activists, and diplomats, gathered to acknowledge Jacob’s efforts. Notable speakers at the event included Wajahat Masood, Justice (R) Nasira Iqbal, Clara Strandhoj, Karl Rogers, Arif Saeed, Tanveer Jahan, Saroop Ijaz advocate, Allama Saddiq Azhar, Samson Salamat, and Rana Zulqurnain Advocate.
Wajahat Masood emphasized the rejection of religious-based divisions among citizens and pledged ongoing advocacy against discriminatory constitutional provisions. He underscored the need for a dispensation in Pakistan that upholds equality, dignity, rights, and opportunities for all citizens.
Clara Strandhoj invoked Jinnah’s vision of tolerance, equality, and inclusion, advocating for strengthening laws and policies to address hate crimes and religious-based violence. She expressed her country’s commitment to promoting peace, development, and human rights in Pakistan.
Karl Rogers commended Peter Jacob’s dedicated efforts for human rights and religious freedom, highlighting the USA’s commitment to promoting these values globally.Justice (R) Nasira Iqbal congratulated Jacob on the well-deserved recognition, considering it a remarkable achievement for all Pakistanis. Tanveer Jahan condemned religious discrimination, praising Jacob’s evidence-based advocacy for positive reforms in laws and policies.
In his acceptance speech, Peter Jacob expressed humility and dedicated the award to fellow human rights defenders, emphasizing the collective efforts of civil society in Pakistan. He stood alongside recipients from Nigeria, Iraq, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Lithuania, Canada, and South Africa, emphasizing the award’s significance in encouraging continued efforts for positive change in Pakistan.
Arif Saeed, Saroop Ijaz advocate, and other speakers echoed their admiration for Jacob’s achievements, highlighting his contributions to peace, tolerance, and human development.Peter Jacob’s endeavors, including the removal of hate material from textbooks and the empowerment of minorities in political participation, received widespread acknowledgment during the event, showcasing his impactful work in the field of human rights.