Asia Bibi nominated for Sakharov Prize 2017: the blasphemy law in the spotlight
Lahore (Agenzia Fides) - Asia Bibi, the Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy and in jail since 2009, has been nominated the European Union’s high-status award edition 2017 of the prestigious "Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought".
The Prize is an initiative of the EU Parliament and is awarded to individuals or groups battling to defend fundamental human rights.
Peter Van Dalen, a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR) in the European Parliament, who proposed the candidacy of Asia Bibi, explained that "Asia Bibi’s case is of symbolic importance for others who have endured suffering simply for expressing freedom of religion".
"In her we see the situation of the whole Christian community. Her case is tragically indicative of the insecurity faced by all minorities when it comes to their fundamental human rights", notes Kaleem Dean, an intellectual and Pakistani analyst, in a comment sent to Fides. "If she succeeds in being awarded the Sakharov Prize, Asia Bibi would receive 50,000 Euros. Yet at stake is more than money, (though, of course, she does deserve to be compensated for the damage caused): the recognition of freedom of religion in Pakistan is at stake", he continues.
"The government - he says - is burying its head in the sand, in order not to hear the anguished cries of minority communities". In particular her case brings the notorious "blasphemy law" into play: "Blasphemy charges are an instrument of what has become state oppression against minorities. Governors should have the courage and vision to reform the blasphemy law", concludes Dean.
Nasir Saeed, director of Center for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS), committed to the defence of religious minorities in Pakistan says, "For years, the issue has been taboo."
Saeed concludes, "The blasphemy law is not in line with international human rights standards. And its abuse raises further violations of international law. The Government of Pakistan does not address such an important issue, although it is a question of life and death".
The CLAAS director recalls that there are reports of a large number of blasphemy cases based on false allegations and on the absence of judicial investigations: "This is why we call on Prime Minister Abbasi to put the issue on the agenda of his government and bring it to Parliament", he concludes.
Source: Agenzia Fides - Information Service of the Pontifical Mission Society, September 26, 2017
Mission Intention for November
That Christians in Asia, bearing witness to the Gospel in word and deed, may promote dialogue, peace, and mutual understanding, especially with those of other religions.
Mission Intention for December
That the elderly, sustained by families and Christian communities, may apply their wisdom and experience to spreading the faith and forming the new generations.
Related links
- Read more from The Far East, November/December 2017