17 December, 1998 (Extracts)

The European Parliament,

1.     Appeals to the Pakistan Senate, and all those who wish to uphold the freedom of minorities, to work for the rejection of Amendment 15 of the Constitution;

2.     Reiterates its call for the revision of the blasphemy law, which continues to be grossly abused to oppress religious minorities, and call for action to prevent abuse as long as the present law remains in force;

3.     Reiterates its appeal for the revision of the separate electoral system for religious minorities and religious communities, in consultation with the representatives of these minorities, with a view to ensuring that they receive fairer representation in society.

4.     Requests that consideration be given to a policy of greater consultation, dialogue and power-sharing in Sindh and especially Karachi in recognition of the fact that more repression can only compound the acute problems afflicting the city ....