On October 9, 2024, a crucial consultation on Religious Majoritarianism in South Asia was convened in Berlin, serving as a precursor to the upcoming 2024 International Ministerial Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief. Organized by the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) in collaboration with the South Asia Forum for Freedom of Religion or Belief, the event aimed to confront the alarming rise of religious nationalism in the region.
The consultation focused on how religious identity, political power, and systemic discrimination intersect to marginalize vulnerable groups. Governments across South Asia have increasingly embraced religious majoritarianism, eroding the rights and freedoms of those who do not conform to the dominant faith. This troubling trend poses a significant threat not only to the region but also to global human rights.
Dr. Ambia Perveen, a prominent advocate for Rohingya rights, was a key voice in these discussions. Drawing from her experience as a humanitarian and a member of the Rohingya community, she underscored the international community’s failure to address ongoing atrocities in Myanmar and beyond. “Religious majoritarianism in South Asia is not just a regional issue but a global concern that threatens fundamental human rights,” she stated. “We must work together to protect religious freedom and ensure justice for those suffering persecution, like the Rohingya,” added Perveen.
Religious Majoritarianism: A Global Crisis with Local Victims
The consultation illuminated the widespread consequences of religious nationalism, particularly in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. In India, the rise of Hindu nationalism has led to violence and oppression against Muslims and Christians. Armed groups, often supported by political leaders, perpetrate violent attacks, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. In Pakistan, draconian blasphemy laws endanger the lives of religious minorities, including Christians, Hindus, and Ahmadis. These laws are frequently weaponized to settle personal scores, reinforcing a legal environment where religious freedom is perpetually threatened.
Myanmar’s Rohingya crisis serves as a stark example of religious persecution. Despite global recognition of their plight, international responses remain inadequate. Perveen lamented, “Despite acknowledgment of the Rohingya crisis, the global response has been insufficient, particularly regarding accountability.” The Rohingya, a predominantly Muslim ethnic group, have faced decades of marginalization, culminating in a violent military campaign in 2017 that forced hundreds of thousands to flee to Bangladesh. While some humanitarian aid has been provided, the lack of accountability for the military’s actions persists. “Lip service has been offered, but it rarely translates into meaningful action,” she emphasized, noting that political and economic interests often overshadow the pursuit of justice.
Children Living Amid Chaos
Perveen expressed deep concern about the impact of these crises on children, many of whom are growing up amid violence and displacement. As both a pediatrician and psychiatrist, she understands the psychological toll on young minds. “It is alarming that future generations are maturing in such an unjust and insecure environment,” she warned. “Protecting their rights is essential for a better future. Our children are suffering due to the inadequate responses of the international community.”
For children in persecuted communities, the failure to address religious majoritarianism results in lives fraught with danger and devoid of security and opportunity. Perveen cautioned that if the global community does not take decisive action, these children will inherit a world marred by the injustices of today.
Countering Majoritarianism: Legal and Educational Reforms
Addressing religious majoritarianism requires a multifaceted approach, according to Perveen. Central to this effort is the establishment of robust legal frameworks that protect minority rights and ensure accountability for violations. However, she noted that political and economic interests often hinder such initiatives, and deep societal divisions fueled by religious nationalism make it difficult to achieve necessary political consensus.
“The lack of accountability for perpetrators, especially in Myanmar, India, and China, worsens the situation,” she explained. “Global pressure is critical to uphold human rights and foster inclusive societies.” In addition to legal reforms, educational initiatives play a vital role in promoting tolerance and understanding. Civil society must lead efforts to foster dialogue among diverse communities; without such endeavors, cycles of hate and violence will likely continue.
Looking Forward to the 2024 International Ministerial Conference
As the 2024 International Ministerial Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief approaches, there is hope that the discussions held in Berlin will catalyze concrete actions. Perveen outlined key outcomes she hopes to see from the conference, including enhanced international mechanisms to monitor religious persecution and increased humanitarian aid for refugees. “Ensuring the safe and voluntary repatriation of the Rohingya, with guaranteed citizenship and security, is vital,” she asserted.
“We must act now to create a world where justice prevails and impunity is no longer tolerated,” she concluded.
The Berlin consultation marked a pivotal moment in addressing the global crisis of religious majoritarianism. As governments, civil society, and religious leaders prepare for the upcoming conference, the international community will be closely watching to see if these discussions yield meaningful change for religious minorities in South Asia and beyond.