Rise of Extremism and Challenges to Freedom of Belief: A Critical Analysis of Pakistan’s International Human Rights Commitments

Abstract

This study delves into the intricate relationship between the surge of extremism in Pakistan and the nation's adherence to its international human rights obligations, particularly concerning freedom of belief. Recognizing a significant research gap, the study underscores the limited exploration of Pakistan's international human rights commitments in the context of freedom of belief. The research problem centers on the multifaceted challenges posed by extremism, which not only infringes upon the fundamental human rights of Pakistani citizens but also jeopardizes the nation's international reputation. The present study intends to critically scrutinize the relationship between extremism and freedom of religion in Pakistan, assessing their alignment or misalignment with international human rights norms. The research employed a qualitative methodology to gather and analyze data from primary and secondary sources through semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis. Key findings indicate that Pakistan is not legally bound by international obligations nonetheless the rise of extremism and its addendum violations of the freedom of belief adversely affects Pakistan‘s global standing despite continued efforts by the government to redress such circumstances. The importance of this research lies in its timely input towards global discussions on human rights and religious freedom, offering practical policy insights for informed advocacy and action.