UN Condemns Systemic Abuse of Non-Muslim Girls in Pakistan
UN conference highlights forced conversions, child marriage, and abuse of Christian and Hindu girls in Pakistan.
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In a recent UN conference held in Geneva, human rights experts and officials condemned the systematic abuse of non-Muslim girls in Pakistan, including forced conversions, child marriage, and abduction. The event, titled ‘Human Rights in Pakistan (Addressing Force Conversions and Child Marriage in Pakistan)’, was organized by the Jubilee Campaign and attended by international human rights figures.
Case of Maria Shahbaz
The conference highlighted the case of Maria Shahbaz, a 13-year-old Christian girl who was abducted in 2025 by a Muslim man near her home. She was forcibly converted to Islam and married to her abductor. Despite her family’s efforts, police in Lahore delayed the filing of a first information report (FIR) and influenced the judge to dismiss their abduction complaint. The Model Town court later awarded custody of Maria to her captor after accepting falsified documents claiming she was 18 years old.
Legal and Human Rights Concerns
The Federal Constitutional Court upheld the decision in March 2026. Maria is one of hundreds of non-Muslim children in Pakistan who have faced similar fates. The UN speakers emphasized the lack of implementation of existing laws, the vulnerability of minors, and the need for stronger action by Pakistani authorities.
International Response and Calls for Justice
Speakers at the conference, including the UN Special Rapporteurs on violence against women and girls, and on contemporary forms of slavery, stressed the serious nature of these violations. They called for effective implementation of laws, protection of victims, and international support where necessary. The families of the affected girls, including Maria’s parents, appealed for international assistance to secure her return.
Legal and Systemic Challenges
Prof. Nicolas Levrat noted that while Pakistan has legal provisions addressing forced conversion and child protection, inconsistent application is a major concern. Dr. Katerina Schwarz emphasized that these cases should be assessed as violations of international human rights treaties, including the CRC, CEDAW, and ICESCR.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The conference concluded with calls for the Pakistani government to take primary responsibility for implementing its human rights obligations. Experts stressed that legislation alone is insufficient without effective enforcement and support for victims. The case of Maria Shahbaz and others like her underscores the urgent need for action to protect the rights of non-Muslim girls in Pakistan.
Source: PJ Media
