Esteemed delegates
Thank you for joining me on this exploration into "Legal Structural Approaches to a More
Inclusive Society."
Let us look at this theme through the lived experiences of a persecuted group that has
suffered silently for decades with minimal international attention. Consider the story of
the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, systematically excluded in some countries from
education, employment, and social opportunities. They have been stripped of their right
to vote and faced ominous cyber and anti-terror legislation, facing criminalization for their
deeply held religious practices, with the ultimate sentence being the death penalty just for
identifying as Muslims. This narrative unfolds in some countries, particularly under the
shadow of the Second Amendment to the Pakistani Constitution and Ordinance XX.
However, it may surprise you to learn that the Ahmadiyya Muslim community once thrived.
Prior to systematic legal exclusion, Ahmadis played a pivotal role in the foundation of
Pakistan and excelled in various facets of society, including politics, the military, and
sports. Notable Ahmadi personalities include Chaudhry Zafrullah Khan who served as the
first Foreign Secretary of Pakistan and later as President of the UN General Assembly and
President of the International Court of Justice. Professor Abdus Salam became the first
Muslim Nobel Laureate in science, and MM Ahmad who served with distinction in the Civil
Service.
Ironically, during this period of prosperity and success, it was the legal framework that
protected the rights of all citizens, ensuring equal treatment. Unfortunately, this landscape
underwent a drastic transformation after the Second Amendment in 1974 and marked a
significant turning point, contributing to the challenging circumstances faced by minorities
in Pakistan today. The amended law not only eroded the rights of Ahmadis but also directly
led to the persecution they now face, contributing to the abuse of other minorities such as
Christians and Hindus. With longstanding systematic persecution under regressive laws,
coupled with demands of religious extremists and intense hostility in everyday life, many
Ahmadis are left with no choice but to seek asylum abroad. This year alone, there have
been more than 40 attacks against the Ahmadiyya Community in Pakistan, ranging from
individuals being targeted to places of worship being desecrated, with the most recent
incident occurring a few days ago.
This tragic narrative extends beyond Pakistan, resonating globally where Ahmadis endure
structural and legal discrimination. It exemplifies the impact of legal structures—both in
working and failing—underscoring the pressing need for comprehensive responses. The
story emphasizes the urgency to protect minorities, ensuring equal opportunities and
fostering inclusivity whilst upholding fundamental human rights.
Legislation should guide us in addressing disparities, emphasizing the importance of
recognizing and celebrating the unique contributions of minority communities to our
collective tapestry. Our laws must go beyond shielding against discrimination; they should
act as catalysts for preserving and cherishing minority cultures. A free and independent
judiciary is essential for the effective safeguarding of human rights and guaranteeing
freedom, justice and equality. Additionally, ensuring equal access to technology and
fostering digital literacy within minority communities is crucial. Imagine a world where
digital inclusion determines socio-economic participation, and legislative measures bridge
the digital divide, empowering minorities with the necessary tools for full participation in
the digital age.
The Ahmadiyya example showcases how legal structures can either protect or perpetuate
persecution. Imagine a collective effort involving legal experts, human rights advocates,
and religious leaders addressing injustices. Picture diplomatic channels advocating for the