The Minority Forum Pakistan (MFP) Punjab, successfully organized a policy seminar titled “Policy Reforms for Minority Protection”.

The Minority Forum Pakistan (MFP) Punjab, successfully organized a policy seminar titled “Policy Reforms for Minority Protection”.
The seminar aimed to evaluate the current legislative landscape for minority protection, particularly focusing on the National Commission for Minority Rights (NCMR) Bill, 2025 its persistent challenges, and actionable policy solutions for safeguarding minority communities in Pakistan.
The event commenced with registration and participant seating, followed by welcome and opening remarks delivered by Samuel Bashir, President Minority Forum Pakistan Punjab & Coordinator CSJ Rawalpindi. In his address, Mr. Bashir highlighted the core purpose of the seminar, introduced MFP’s key community initiatives, presented five major policy demands, and officially announced the MFP Rawalpindi Chapter.
The session featured prominent human rights experts:
Mr. Arshad Mehmood of Parliamentarians Commission for Human Rights emphasized that the Commission is essential for ensuring equality of citizens before the law, as guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan. He noted that any delay in the passage of this Act will further marginalize communities that are already disadvantaged. He added that inclusion is a fundamental prerequisite of any democracy; therefore, the NCRM is not merely a commission but a significant step toward fostering inclusion, respect, and diversity within society.
Peter Jacob Executive Director, Centre for Social Justice, emphasized, “Our stance is clear: the NCMR Bill must be shared with minority stakeholders before it is presented in the joint session. Ensuring their input is crucial for addressing any concerns and for enabling an empowered NCMR Commission to effectively uphold and protect the rights of minority communities.
A dynamic interactive Q&A session and open dialogue followed, during which participants, civil society representatives, and legal professionals offered their reflections and policy suggestions. Additional insights by distinguished guests further strengthened the discussion.
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Hasrat Kamran Gill, President Minority Forum Pakistan District Rawalpindi acknowledging the speakers, participants, and organizing partners, along with a commitment to sustained advocacy and forthcoming policy action plans.
The event collectively reinforced the need for credible legislative reform, institutional empowerment, and enforceable mechanisms to protect Pakistan’s religious and social minorities.