Protection of Minority Rights: An International and Islamic Legal Prospective

Abstract

This study describes the legal and constitutional status of the minorities of Pakistan according to the constitution of 1973. States should preserve the rights and freedoms of all their citizens, regardless of their ethnicity or religious affiliation. When it comes to state legislation, the question of minority rights is always raised. Sometimes discrimination and intolerance of society lead to conflicts. To avoid these conflicts, clashes and further infringement of minority rights, there must be promotion and preservation of the rights of minorities. Pakistan is envisioned as an Islamic democratic society, which preserves a Muslim majority and gives equal rights to its minorities. Islamic law has assured several rights and privileges of minorities. Minorities have rights and benefits under Islamic law. This study examines the need for a constitutional legal framework for religious minorities of Pakistan. This study also provides some recommendations for the legal framework for the protection of minority rights.