Every religion curbs women rights to some extent. Some countries acted against religions and put a ban on wearing hijab, which was also a violation of human rights.
Asma JahangirRead
Attempts are being made to turn Pakistan into a security state. If they succeed they should better rename it 'ISIstan.'
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote warns against the implications of transforming Pakistan into a state focused solely on security, hinting at a loss of democratic values.
Asma Jahangir's quote critiques the efforts to establish a security-oriented state in Pakistan, suggesting that this shift could undermine the countryβs freedoms and democratic principles. By coining the term 'ISIstan,' she implies that the nation's identity may be reduced to one dominated by military oversight and intelligence operations, which are represented by the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency. The statement serves as a caution against letting security concerns overshadow the vital aspects of governance and civil rights.
Themes
SecurityStateDemocracyFreedomPoliticsPakistan
In practice
Example use cases
During a political debate, this quote can be used to illustrate concerns about national security policies overriding civil rights.
More from Asma Jahangir
All quotes βThere have always been difficult situations for activists in Pakistan. In the 1960s, people fought for linguistic and ethnic rights in relation to the Bangladesh movement and the struggle of the people in the western Balochistan province.
Asma JahangirRead
We are so resilient as a people. I have so much respect for their dignity and courage. I hope the world sees this side of Pakistan, one where professionals want a democracy. The spirit of our intelligentsia cannot be broken.
Asma JahangirRead
In 1986, Pakistan got the blasphemy law. So, while we had just two cases of blasphemy before that year, now we have thousands. It shows that one should be careful while bringing religion into legislation, because the law itself can become an instrument of persecution.
Asma JahangirRead
I'm not fearful for myself, because I've seen adversity, and I can see it again. But I feel very upset and anguished when I see images of young lawyers beaten up.
Asma JahangirRead
Duplicity in matters of religion is not confined to Pakistan, but it hurts the most in societies where debate on religion is asphyxiated and preachers of hate have become keepers of faith.
Asma JahangirRead
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