Pakistan highlighted its efforts to promote peacebuilding, interfaith harmony, minority rights and digital inclusion at the Paris Peace Forum 2026.
Khalil Tahir Sandhu, Pakistan’s only Christian senator, addressed a high-level parliamentary roundtable titled “Defending Without Dividing: Parliaments Between Security and Social Contract,” moderated by the Speaker of Malta’s Parliament.
He stressed that national security must guarantee equal protection, dignity and religious freedom for all citizens, adding that sustainable peace requires genuine equality and acceptance beyond mere tolerance.
Youth Development Foundation (YDF) Executive Director Shahid Rehmat presented Pakistan’s youth-led peacebuilding initiatives, including YDF’s Inclusive Lens, which received international recognition through the 2026 United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC)–BMW Group Intercultural Innovation Hub in Milan for its efforts to combat hate speech and disinformation.
He also highlighted Online, Not Alone, an initiative aimed at addressing digital harassment and online persecution.
Both representatives underscored the role of responsible artificial intelligence, constructive digital storytelling and youth participation in challenging harmful narratives and fostering peaceful coexistence.
On the sidelines of the forum, Sandhu and Rehmat met representatives of the United Nations, parliamentarians from European Union member states, and leaders of international organisations and global foundations. Their discussions explored potential partnerships in minority rights, digital peacebuilding and inclusive development.
Their participation highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to advance human dignity, religious harmony and community-driven approaches to achieving sustainable peace.
