Articles

HRFP Demands Justice for Blasphemy-Accused Farhan Masih and Others

Human Rights Focus Pakistan (HRFP) condemns widespread persecution of religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly Christians and Hindus. Violations include forced conversions and misuse of blasphemy laws, illustrated by the recent case of Farhan Masih, accused of blasphemy after a personal conflict. HRFP reports numerous abductions and forced conversions affecting both Christian and Hindu women. The president of HRFP, Naveed Walter, highlights the physical violence, social exclusion, and barriers to justice faced by minorities, exacerbated by institutional discrimination. Despite constitutional protections, violations of religious freedom persist, keeping minorities marginalized and at risk. HRFP operates the REAT Helpline, providing support for human rights violations, receiving significant calls regarding religious issues annually.

The Legal and Structural Undermining of Indigenous Land Rights in Malaysia

Women’s Rights and Gender Inequality in North Korea: The Impact of State Policies and Social Norms

Women’s rights in North Korea are discussed, showing a contrast between the country’s legal commitments to gender equality and the harsh realities of women under state policies and social norms. Including systemic discrimination and limited opportunities amongst others.

A Summary of ICC and The Conflict in Israel-Palestine

A Human Rights Crisis and International Law Violations

The Price of Freedom: Examining Russia’s Prisoner Exchange and its Human Rights Ramifications

The Universal Periodic Review: Iran, Iraq and Egypt

The Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council: Nicaragua and the Democratic Republic of Congo

Hidden Histories: Indigenous People in Bangladesh and the 1971 Liberation War

The Biharis in Bangladesh: A Reflection on Violence, Victimhood, and Conflict

The Dual Setting of Consent in Sexual Violence Cases and Further Considerations

Fourth Edition of the GHRD Film Festival: Children’s Rights

The GHRD hosted its fourth human rights film festival on November 21, 2024, in The Hague, focusing on children’s rights and attracting over 160 attendees, including ambassadors and advocates. The festival featured impactful documentaries, such as “Butterfly Butterfly,” highlighting the struggles of child refugees; “Worth of a Girl,” addressing forced marriages; and “Children of War,” which explored the effects of conflict on children. Other films included “Hunger Ward,” depicting the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, and “International Adoptions: A Global Scandal,” investigating unethical adoption practices. A panel discussion followed, featuring experts discussing children’s rights, the risks children face online, and the importance of advocacy. The event concluded with a poignant testimony from GHRD’s Youth Ambassador, Putheany Kim, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable children and amplify their voices.

Urgent Appeal: Immediate Release and Protection of ISKCON Leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari

We express grave concern over the November 25, 2024, arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a respected ISKCON leader, by the Bangladesh Police, which poses threats to freedom of speech and religious harmony. As an advocate for the Sanatana Dharma community, his recent activism has involved addressing attacks on Hindu temples. The allegations against him, including sedition, seem like targeted attempts to suppress his calls for justice. We urge the Bangladeshi government to ensure his safety and fair treatment, request international human rights organizations to monitor the situation, and call on media and civil society to advocate for accountability. An impartial investigation is demanded, and if no credible evidence is found, his release is necessary. This arrest threatens democratic values and communal peace, prompting solidarity with Bangladesh’s Hindu community in the call for justice and equality.

Hindus Victims of Political and Extremist Persecution in Bangladesh

The forced removal of Sheikh Hasina’s government in Bangladesh has led to increased violence against the Hindu minority, characterized by attacks, looting, and murders, highlighting the government’s failure to protect them. In response, Hindus initiated a peaceful protest on August 9, 2024, demanding rights and recognition, yet faced violent repression, including arrests. A significant protest in Rangpur showcased community resilience. The media’s delayed coverage of these issues exacerbates the vulnerability of this minority. A tragic case involving the death of Hridoy Ravidas after alleged torture by authorities emphasizes systemic discrimination and calls for urgent reforms. Global Human Rights Defence (GHRD) advocates for an independent investigation and international pressure for justice and structural changes to protect minority rights in Bangladesh.

Intersecting: Gender Equality and Public Health – 25 November 2024

Why the Intellectuals? A Heinous War Strategy to Cripple Bangladesh

The Role of Media: How Pakistan’s Control and the ‘Winners’ Narrative’ Obscured the Bangladesh Genocide

The Post-1971 Non-Recognition of the Bangladeshi Genocide: a Legal, Political, and Social Analysis

Addressing the Convergencies Between Voluntary Sex Work and Sexual Exploitation for a Sex Positive Culture.

Iran Women’s Movement: A Decade Of Political Activism

GHRD’s UN Side Event: Human Rights in Pakistan

On October 2, 2024, GHRD hosted an event at the 57th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, chaired by Mariana Mayor Lima, featuring speakers including Professor Nicolas Levrat, Ammarah Balouch, and Jamal Baloch. Professor Levrat discussed the unequal enjoyment of human rights globally, emphasizing state obligations under human rights treaties and the role of NGOs in raising awareness. Ammarah Balouch highlighted the forced conversions and marriages of Sindhi girls in Pakistan, noting significant obstacles to justice for victims. Jamal Baloch shared his testimony on enforced disappearances in Balochistan, affecting young activists and their families. The panel called for urgent cooperation among minorities, adherence to human rights treaty obligations, and accountability for perpetrators, suggesting the establishment of an independent UN fact-finding mission.