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Pakistan: Minority Groups

Question for Department for International Development

UIN 55332, tabled on 29 November 2016

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, what role Government aid plays in helping the government of Pakistan strengthen legal protections for minorities in that country.

Answered on

6 December 2016

The UK Government raises human rights issues and the rights of minorities on a regular basis at the highest levels in Pakistan and we ensure our development assistance targets the poor, regardless of race, religion, gender, social background, or nationality. One of the four principles set out in the UK-Pakistan Partnership Principles Assessment is a commitment by Pakistan to respect human rights and the UK uses this engagement to advocate for enhanced legal protections for minorities in line with Pakistan’s constitution and its international obligations. The Partnership Principles Assessment provides the basis for regular bilateral assistance talks between the UK and Pakistan.