European Parliament Adopts Resolutions on Persecution of Christians in Nigeria and Pakistan
The European Parliament has condemned the persecution of Christians in Nigeria's Plateau State and Pakistan, and called on the authorities of both countries to protect believers.
On July 9, 2026, the European Parliament adopted two resolutions condemning killings, abductions, forced conversion to Islam, and forced marriages targeting Christians in Nigeria and Pakistan, reports Tribune Chrétienne.
The first resolution was adopted following the mass killing of Christians in the village of Kawel in Nigeria's Plateau State. The armed attack left dozens dead, many wounded, and the homes and property of local residents destroyed. The document was supported by 510 members of parliament, one voted against, and 86 abstained.
The European Parliament called on Nigerian authorities to conduct an independent investigation, hold those responsible accountable, strengthen the protection of civilians, and intensify efforts against terrorist groups, including Boko Haram. The resolution notes that violence in the central regions of the country is linked to Islamist terrorism, ethnic and religious conflicts, land disputes, and organized crime.
The second resolution concerns the fate of 13-year-old Pakistani Christian Maria Shahbaz, who was reportedly abducted, forcibly converted to Islam, and compelled to marry her abductor. Members of parliament demanded that the girl be provided with legal and psychological assistance and that her return to her family be ensured.
Furthermore, the European Parliament called on Pakistani authorities to strengthen efforts against child marriage and to review the practice of applying blasphemy laws. The resolution emphasizes that such laws are frequently used to pressure members of religious minorities, including Christians.
The Union of Orthodox Journalists previously reported that the European Parliament spoke out against the forced Islamization of children in Pakistan.
