An NGO denounced the false accusation against Sarwar Masih, meant to illegally seize his property, which his family has occupied for over 70 years. Islamic banners have been displayed to prevent any reconciliation. For Naveed Walter, president of Human Rights Focus Pakistan, this “reflects a disturbing pattern”. Impartial investigation and reforms against the abuse of blasphemy laws are called for.
A new bill under consideration by the Duma seeks to limit the right to hold religious services in private buildings in order to ‘prevent the spread of hostile radical ideas.’ All religious denominations, including the Russian Orthodox Church, are opposed to the bill. Protestant communities would be the most affected, as they have been unable to obtain land to build their own churches since Soviet times.
The Holy See has officially announced the pontiff's trip, which includes Algeria (the capital Algiers and Annaba, Saint Augustine’s ancient city of Hippo) as well as Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea. Algeria’s bishops are delighted that a pontiff will visit a country that has also seen Christian martyrs in recent years. For Bishop Carraro of Oran, a PIME missionary, this “visit encourages us”.
A report by the International Labour Organisation reveals that 20 per cent of migrant fishermen work in exploitative conditions. The fishing industry, which is worth billions of dollars, relies heavily on foreign labour. Shifts of up to 20 hours a day, ID papers withheld, and debt to pay for recruitment costs are commonplace.
Today the country celebrates the anniversary of the Rosary Revolution. A nun speaks about what went on in the streets against the Marcos dictatorship in February 1986 and the passing of the torch to Generation Z. For the president of the Bishop’s Conference, Cardinal Garcera, “People can still change society if they choose honesty”.
Mandatory background checks will be introduced for employees working with girls and boys in government institutions. Criminal background records and periodic checks, including for existing staff, will be used. The goal is to boost prevention and institutional accountability.
