The initiative aims to foster a more inclusive society by promoting the rights of religious minorities, particularly focusing on the implementation of Articles 18–22 of the ICCPR. The project establishes platforms and mechanisms to advocate for freedom of religion, increased civic space, and protection from discrimination and persecution.
One of the most significant accomplishments of the project is the establishment of a strong network of 76 Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), including both men and women. These HRDs have been consistently engaged through 19 meetings, enabling 641 participants to share information, review REAT violations, and devise action plans. An Early Warning System (EWS) has also been piloted, providing alerts via social media platforms and reaching over 5,600 people online. Over 6000 public service messages were disseminated through FM radio and cable networks, reaching an estimated 1,800 individuals directly with gender-disaggregated targeting.
The project focused on building the capacity of HRDs, civil society organizations, and the media. A total of 641 HRDs were trained on the Early Warning System, while 58 journalists were sensitized to REAT violations and investigative reporting on religious freedoms. Simultaneously, more than 15,000 IEC materials were disseminated among the public, stakeholders, media professionals, religious leaders, and community members. Public engagement was bolstered through six outreach events including seminars, street theaters, and workshops, attended by 276 people (148 men and 128 women), further amplifying REAT awareness.
AWAM also played a vital role in advocacy through sustained legal and policy dialogue. Six seminars and consultative workshops were conducted, attended by 299 individuals, where nine research and policy papers were shared. Furthermore, political engagement was ensured by holding seven meetings with political leaders and four with religious leaders, while also developing and promoting four interfaith Codes of Conduct. These efforts resulted in REAT issues being placed on the policy agenda of religious and political institutions.
To acknowledge excellence in advancing minority rights, AWAM launched the REAT Awards, recognizing individuals from media, legal, and civil society sectors—distributing four awards to date. Additionally, several feature articles and news stories were published in mainstream media, spotlighting the ongoing challenges and violations faced by religious minorities. Through its robust and strategic interventions, the REAT project has created sustainable platforms for advocacy, capacity-building, and social inclusion, reinforcing the commitment to protect religious freedoms and foster tolerance in Pakistan.
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