Geneva: UN experts have voiced serious concerns about the persistent issue of abduction and forced religious conversion through marriage targeting women and girls in minority communities in Pakistan. These practices, prevalent in provinces like Sindh, are reportedly perpetuated by a climate of impunity.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the majority of these forced conversions involve Hindu and Christian women and girls, with a significant number of cases occurring among adolescents aged 14 to 18. The experts underscored the coercive nature of these conversions, which contravene the principles of free consent in marriage and freedom of religion.

The experts highlighted systemic discrimination against non-Muslim females, who are often pressured to convert to Islam to marry Muslim men. They emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to raise the minimum marriage age to 18, criminalize forced conversions, and enforce existing laws on human trafficking and sexual violence.

Moreover, the experts criticized law enforcement for frequently dismissing victims’ complaints and failing to investigate allegations effectively. They urged Pakistan to offer comprehensive support services to victims, addressing underlying issues such as gender inequality, poverty, and religious intolerance.

The experts reiterated the necessity for Pakistan to ensure freedom of religion and belief and equality for all sectors of society, devoid of discrimination. They called for immediate actions to investigate allegations and bring perpetrators to justice.