Lahore, November 11, 2024: Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan, a social movement dedicated to advancing religious and political tolerance, social inclusion, democratic values, and fundamental freedoms, has announced its decision to observe a “Week for Tolerance” in celebration of the International Day for Tolerance. This day, recognized annually on November 16 by the United Nations (UN), aims to educate the public about the importance of tolerance in society and to highlight the harmful effects of intolerance.
During a press conference held at the Lahore Press Club, Chairman of Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan, Samson Salamat, alongside notable social, political, and religious leaders—including Ejaz Alam Augustin (Former Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs), Saeeda Diep (Executive Director of the Centre for Peace and Secular Studies), Pastor Amjad Niamat (Chairman, Ecumenical Commission of the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan), Pastor Emmanuel Khokhar (Spokesperson, Church of Pakistan), Saleem Bhatti (Deputy Information Secretary, PPP), Ashir Sarfraz (CEO, Christian True Spirit), and Dr. Sharjeel Zafar (Christian Lawyers Association)—shed light on the significance of this initiative.
Samson Salamat explained that the decision to observe the “Week for Tolerance” stems from the alarming rise of religious and political intolerance, extremism, and violence in society, which has severely impacted public life and created an environment of fear and terror. Activities during the week aim to promote awareness about the value of religious and political tolerance as a foundation for building a peaceful and violence-free society.
Highlighting the urgency of the issue, Mr. Salamat remarked:
“Comprehensive and serious efforts are needed across multiple sectors, including state institutions, constitutional and legal reforms, education, media, and governance, to restore Pakistan’s commitment to religious tolerance, acceptance, and mutual respect. Achieving meaningful change requires political will, resource allocation, and an inclusive approach to engage all segments of society. Only then can we overcome a legacy of violence and lay the groundwork for a future based on tolerance and peaceful coexistence.”
Recommendations for Promoting Tolerance and Social Inclusion
Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan proposed several initiatives and strategies to foster tolerance, social inclusion, democratic values, and fundamental freedoms in society:
National Recognition of Tolerance Day: November 16, the International Day for Tolerance, should be officially observed as a National Day to promote tolerance and harmony.
Adopting a National Narrative of Tolerance: The government and state institutions should formally adopt and promote the ideology of “Rwadari” (Tolerance) as a counter-narrative to challenge extremist ideologies and trends of violence rooted in religion and sectarianism.
Textbook Reforms: Remove discriminatory, biased, or inflammatory content from school textbooks that propagate hate or extremism. Include lessons promoting tolerance, diversity, and critical thinking. Additionally, teachers should be trained in peacebuilding methodologies, nonviolent communication, and inclusive classroom practices.
Nationwide Campaigns for Pluralism: The government should launch well-structured nationwide campaigns using innovative tools and online platforms to promote values of pluralism, tolerance, and coexistence.
Engaging Religious and Youth Leaders: Religious leaders, community elders, and youth leaders should be actively involved in initiatives to counter extremism and foster interfaith harmony. Youth should also be encouraged to participate in art, culture, and sports to promote unity.
Strict Implementation of the National Action Plan: The National Action Plan’s measures against hate speech and extremist outfits should be enforced, including bans on public gatherings, fundraising, and activities that incite hatred and violence.
Addressing Misuse of Blasphemy Laws: Recognizing the consistent misuse of blasphemy laws, Rwadari Tehreek urged the National Assembly, Senate, and Provincial Assemblies to hold grand debates on this issue. These discussions should focus on strategies to enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies to address blasphemy-related incidents and violence against minorities effectively.
The movement also emphasized the need to uphold the vision of Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, as articulated in his historic speech on August 11, 1947, which called for equal rights and respect for all citizens regardless of religion or belief.
Candlelight Vigil Honors Victims of Violence
The press conference concluded with a candlelight vigil in memory of the victims of the Quetta Railway Station suicide attack and all those who have lost their lives to violent extremism and terrorism.
Rwadari Tehreek Pakistan’s initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the pressing need for collective action to combat intolerance and create a society that values peace, diversity, and coexistence.
