Pakistan: Marches planned in Islamabad and Karachi, 15:00 Aug. 11, for National Minorities Day

Event

Activists plan to hold marches near Islamabad's National Press Club and Karachi's Frere Hall, from 15:00 Aug. 11 to mark National Minorities Day. Organizers are denouncing alleged systemic discrimination of religious minorities, as well as demanding action against forceful conversions and attacks on worship places of minorities. Participation and the march routes are unclear. Up to a few hundred people may attend the gatherings and potentially march to nearby public squares or government buildings.

Authorities will likely monitor the rally and may impose traffic restrictions along the march routes if there are large numbers of people. Hardline groups may also engage in confrontations, though significant violence is unlikely.

Advice

Exercise caution along the rally routes. Allow additional travel time in the affected areas. Confirm transport disruptions and road status in downtown areas Aug. 11. Heed all security and traffic advisories.