Pakistan ranks eighth globally for Christian persecution

Watchdog ranks Pakistan near the danger zone as Christians face routine abuse, weak protection, and laws weaponized against them.

Christians in Pakistan flagged as high risk

• Open Doors reported that Christians make up 1.8 percent of Pakistan.
• Described systemic discrimination, violence, and forced conversions.
• Highlighted bonded labor and gender-based targeting.
• Said state protection remains minimal.

Pakistan ranks high on the global danger list

• Pakistan placed eighth on the World Watch List 2026.
• Ranking tracks Christian persecution across 50 countries.
• Labels the country among the most dangerous worldwide.
• Signals entrenched, ongoing threats.

European Parliament briefing raises alarms

• Open Doors presented findings in Brussels.
• Event hosted inside the European Parliament.
• Pakistani activist Joseph Janssen addressed lawmakers.
• Focus stayed on minority vulnerability despite legislation.

Laws exist but fail on the ground

• Joseph Janssen cited child marriage laws being ignored.
• Said minority girls still face abduction and forced marriage.
• Noted courts often favor Sharia over civil protections.
• Called enforcement nearly nonexistent.

Blasphemy laws drive violence and impunity

• Janssen warned that blasphemy claims target Christians.
• Said accusations spark mob attacks and jail without trials.
• Cited the Jaranwala church burnings.
• Reported zero accountability afterward.

Extremism and global pressure questions

• Criticized the inaction against Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan.
• Said religious prisoners remain locked up.
• Questioned the EU's silence on its 2021 resolution.
• Raised possible GSP+ trade suspension pressure.