Inter-faith commission calls for inclusion and respect for religious diversity

KARACHI: Ambassador at Large for Global Peace & Human Rights, Chairman Interfaith Commission for Peace & Harmony (ICPH) Allama Muhammad Ahsan joined the global community in expressing solidarity with the victims of acts of violence based on religion or belief.

In a message on the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief on Saturday, Allama Ahsan said all major religions in the world embrace tolerance and peaceful coexistence in a shared humanity.

“There is richness and strength in diversity hence religion should never be a threat. Religion is a personal choice, an individual right to believe in a higher being or a set of principles which guides a person through life.”

“As we commemorate the victims, we must do more to address the root causes of intolerance and discrimination by promoting inclusion and respect for diversity. We must also ensure that the perpetrators of these crimes are held accountable.

“ICPH had always been at the forefront of all international initiatives for promoting intercultural, peace, interfaith harmony, tolerance and respect both at home and abroad. This extraordinary moment calls on all of us to work together as one human family to defeat a disease and put an end to hate and discrimination. ICPH works hard to tackle religious persecution and its terrible effects. Our Windsor Dialogue brings together senior religious figures to identify causes and solutions.”

“Today, we remember everyone who has been a victim of violence because of their religious belief. ICPH efforts to counter violence, radicalization, and violent extremism in Pakistan, promote tolerance through education, and support marginalized communities. We stand with everyone whose human rights have been infringed.”

The  Interfaith Commission for Peace & Harmony will continue to advance international efforts to protect individuals against xenophobia, intolerance, discrimination and violence based on religion or belief. ICPH is committed to furthering close International cooperation in favor of the rights of religious.