Pressured to Convert? Know Your Legal Rights in Pakistan

If you were pressured or coerced into religious conversion through a relationship or marriage in Pakistan, here is what you need to know about your rights and how to get help.

Forced or Coerced Conversion Is a Serious Offence

Conversion under duress, threat, or manipulation is not valid under Islamic law or Pakistani civil law. If you were coerced, you have rights and there is help available.

Understanding Coerced Conversion

Coerced conversion in a relationship context typically involves:

Ultimatums: "Marry me/convert or I'll share your photos/ruin your reputation"
Family or community pressure orchestrated by a partner
False promises of love and security contingent on conversion
Converting a person against their will through kidnapping or confinement
Psychologically manipulating a vulnerable person into changing faith

Legal Protections in Pakistan

Article 20 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion
Forced conversion is prosecutable under various criminal statutes
Sindh: Criminal Law (Protection of Minorities) Act 2021 — forced conversion = up to 5 years prison
Punjab: Punjab Prevention of Forced Conversions Act provides protections
A conversion conducted under coercion can be declared void by a court

Who Can Help You

National Commission for Minorities: 051-9204440
Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP): 042-35761999
Lawyers for Human Rights: 042-35761999
FIA for blackmail/coercion component: 9911
Edhi Foundation (shelter): 115

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