WASHINGTON: A new forum aimed at promoting interfaith harmony, religious freedom and peaceful coexistence across Pakistan will be launched in August 2026, bringing together government representatives, lawmakers, members of the judiciary, religious scholars, civil society, academia, media and youth leaders.
The Interfaith League Against Poverty (I-LAP) on Thursday announced the launch of the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Peace Builder Forum – Pakistan, a landmark initiative designed to advance religious freedom, strengthen dialogue among diverse stakeholders, and promote peaceful coexistence throughout Pakistan.
The announcement was made by Sajid Sandhu, Chairman and President of I-LAP Pakistan and the United States, during a gathering at the Hart Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C., where he outlined a new strategy for advancing freedom of religion or belief through constructive engagement, constitutional dialogue, and collaboration.
“The IRF Peace Builder Forum represents a new chapter in our efforts to promote religious freedom in Pakistan,” Sandhu said. “Our vision is rooted in the belief that lasting peace is achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and partnership. We choose to see the glass as half full—focusing on opportunities to build trust rather than allowing differences to define our future.”
The Forum, scheduled to launch in August 2026, will bring together government representatives, legislators, members of the judiciary, civil society organisations, religious scholars and leaders, media professionals, academics, youth leaders, and other stakeholders committed to advancing peaceful coexistence and protecting the dignity of every individual.
Sandhu emphasised that the initiative is grounded in Pakistan’s constitutional framework and seeks to support the effective implementation of the rights already guaranteed to every citizen.
He noted that I-LAP’s work is guided by internationally recognised human rights principles, including Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms every person’s right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.
According to Sandhu, the IRF Peace Builder Forum will provide a nonpartisan platform where participants from diverse backgrounds can identify practical solutions, share best practices, and promote policies that strengthen religious freedom while respecting Pakistan’s constitutional order and democratic institutions.
One of the Forum’s distinguishing features is its commitment to engaging all sectors of society.
“Religious freedom cannot be advanced by one institution alone,” Sandhu said. “It requires cooperation among government institutions, lawmakers, the judiciary, religious communities, civil society, educators, the media, and other influential stakeholders. Sustainable progress is achieved when everyone has a seat at the table.”
