Pakistan is commemorating National Minorities Day today, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the religious, cultural, and socio-economic rights of minority communities across the country.

The observance aligns with the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing the protection, dignity, and equal opportunities for individuals belonging to religious, linguistic, national, or ethnic minority groups. The day serves as a call to promote tolerance, inclusivity, and interfaith harmony in society.

National Minorities Day also marks Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s historic address to the Constituent Assembly on August 11, 1947, in which he pledged equal rights and freedom of religion for every citizen of Pakistan, regardless of faith or background. His words continue to inspire the nation’s vision for unity and social justice.

Across the country, seminars, cultural programs, and community dialogues are being held to honor the contributions of minorities and to strengthen the values of diversity and mutual respect.