Pakistan blasphemy laws: EPP Group calls for end to misuse

The EPP Group is deeply concerned about the controversial blasphemy laws in Pakistan which are increasingly being used to target vulnerable minority groups, including Christians and Ahmedis.

"The widespread abuse of these laws is well documented", stated Jeroen Lenaers MEP. "We call on the Pakistani Government to carry out a thorough review, with a view to repealing the laws."

Pakistan's blasphemy laws make it dangerous for religious minorities to express themselves freely or engage openly in religious activities. Several wild accusations have already led to death sentences. Some cases are well known, like that of the young woman Asia Bibi whose death sentence was confirmed last month. Unfortunately there have been many similar cases. Several dozen people are currently in prison on blasphemy charges.

The EPP Group underlines the importance of a strong signal from the EU on this issue. Lenaers concluded: "We call on the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the European Commission to use any tool at their disposal to pressurise the Pakistani Government into doing more for the protection of religious minorities."