On December 12, 2025, The Edge Foundation hosted a high-level Christmas Lunch and Consultative Meeting at Faletti’s Hotel, Lahore, bringing together a distinguished group of legislators, senior lawyers, religious leaders, civil society representatives, women’s rights activists, journalists, and community leaders to address the critical issue of forced conversion and forced marriages of minor girls from religious minority communities in Pakistan.

Speakers highlighted that Christmas, a time of reflection on hope, peace, and the protection of the vulnerable, stands in stark contrast to the disturbing rise in abductions, forced conversions, and illegal marriages of minor girls. These issues unfortunately continue to escalate despite the strong moral and legal frameworks in place.

Troubling Cases and Systemic Issues

The Edge Foundation shared troubling cases involving Christian minor girls who were allegedly abducted, forcibly converted, and married to adult men. Participants voiced significant concerns regarding the continuation of these practices despite existing legal protections such as the Child Marriage Restraint Act.

Call for Reforms

Prominent legal and human rights experts underscored the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to protect vulnerable children and religious minorities.

Legal Insights and Commitment to Action

Advocate Ghulam Murtaza Chaudhary, a senior Supreme Court lawyer, briefed the attendees on a petition filed in the Lahore High Court, seeking judicial intervention to curb the forced conversion of minor girls. He emphasized the need for institutional accountability and swift policy reforms to prevent further violations.

Religious leaders from various faiths, including bishops and clerics, strongly condemned the exploitation of minor girls, describing it as a violation of human dignity and contrary to the core values of all religions. Bishop Alwin J. Samuel, Chairman of The Edge Foundation, reiterated the urgency of protecting minors, upholding justice, and strengthening the rule of law. He called for peace, coexistence, and solidarity among all citizens of Pakistan.

Ongoing Commitment and Next Steps

The event concluded with a symbolic Christmas cake-cutting ceremony, reinforcing the collective commitment to unity, compassion, and justice. Participants reaffirmed that the true spirit of Christmas—marked by compassion, justice, and hope—should inspire all to act together in protecting the most vulnerable children in Pakistan.