ISLAMABAD: To promote interfaith harmony, the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Legal Aid Society (LAS) on Wednesday.

As per the MoU, both organisations would collaborate in implementing a comprehensive two-year programme, “Protecting and promoting religious freedom in Pakistan,” for Sindh and South Punjab. The programme is aimed at fostering an environment of interfaith harmony and bolstering minority rights.

According to a statement, NCHR stated that over the next two years, the project will be dedicated to safeguarding the rights of minorities through empowerment and knowledge, enhancing the capacity of the criminal justice sector, and fostering inclusive dialogues that shape positive legal, political, and social narratives.

Other key partners of the project included Aahung and the Roshni Welfare Organisation (RWO). Speaking at the project orientation workshop, NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha briefed the participants about the research and efforts done by the commission to protect and promote minority rights in Pakistan.

She also explained the commission’s mandate and its efforts in advocating for women’s rights, the rights of minorities and transgenders, mental health, child labor, and the plight of Afghan refugees.

Ms Rabiya added that NCHR’s expertise would be pivotal in leading the advocacy component of this project alongside LAS.

LAS Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Haya Eman Zahid articulated the vision and mission of LAS and set the tone for the programme’s approach towards inclusive and effective implementation.

Published in Dawn, November 30th, 2023