Pakistan has experienced a significant increase in political polarisation in recent years which is deeply rooted within the society’s various divisive identities such as ethnicity, socioeconomic disparities, linguistic and demographic divisions, and religious and sectarian basis. However, governing elite of Pakistan’s conscious efforts to foster unity among diverse communities based solely on religious identity has, unfortunately, diverted their attention from broader political and socioeconomic issues.  

The prevalence of multiple identity markers in Pakistan has contributed to the fragmentation and polarisation of its society. Ethnic and linguistic differences, for instance, have fuelled tensions and rivalries whereas socioeconomic inequalities have also played a significant role in creating a sense of alienation among different social classes, exacerbating the polarisation. While on the other hand, overwhelming focus on religious grounds has overshadowed the people’s rights and entitlements, associated with economic development, social justice and democratic transition, which are important aspects of a stable and inclusive society.  Moreover, the politicisation of religion has led to the rise of extremist ideologies and religious intolerance, further deepening the division among different religious and sectarian groups and damaging the country’s social fabric. 

Pluralism creates a conducive environment for human rights protection, acknowledges the dignity of individuals and fosters an inclusive and tolerant environment where every citizen can freely express opinion, practice religion and participate in public life without discrimination. Human rights, in turn, provide the foundation to maintain a distinct identity for everyone and a framework for peaceful coexistence. The connection between pluralism and human rights becomes even more important in diverse societies, such as Pakistan, where different religious, ethnic and cultural communities coexist.         

Pakistan has made progress in acknowledging and safeguarding human rights through constitutional provisions and the ratification of relevant international treaties. Furthermore, the country has made various policy, legislative and institutional measures to protect the citizen’s rights. These initiatives include the “National Action Plan on Human Rights”, the “National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights,” and the establishment of the “National Commission for Human Rights,” among others.   

However, according to the Human Rights Watch, Pakistan government continue to control media and curtail dissent. Threats and attacks on media created fear among journalists and other civil society actors. Many of them have resorted to self-censorship. While the government uses a colonial-fashioned sedition law to supress political opponents and journalists.