Birth Registration Case Study

A Christian Family’s Triumph Over Discrimination and Bureaucracy

Introduction:
Birth registration is not just a legal necessity—it’s a fundamental human right. This case recounts the powerful journey of the Nasreen Hafeez family, a Christian household living in a predominantly Muslim community in District Sialkot, who faced religious discrimination while attempting to register their newborn daughter born on November 25, 1995. Their determination to claim their child’s rightful identity led to a ripple effect of justice and community transformation.

Presenting Challenges

• Religious Discrimination: Union Council staff delayed registration citing biased and discriminatory views towards the family’s Christian faith.
• Pressure to Convert: The family was shockingly advised to convert to Islam as a means to ease the process—a suggestion they courageously rejected.
• Unjust Paperwork: Despite having all required documents, they were asked to produce additional, unnecessary paperwork not mandated by law.
• Community Pressure: Being a minority in a conservative community, they endured social pressure to comply quietly and surrender their identity.

Intervention and Support

• Legal Backing: Human rights lawyers intervened, outlining legal provisions and helping the family build a strong case against the injustice.
• Media Exposure: The family’s story was publicized in local and national media, drawing widespread attention and public sympathy.
• Advocacy by Bunyad: With support from the Aawaz II Program, Bunyad Literacy and Community Council organized community education drives promoting religious harmony and equal rights.
• Government Dialogue: Civil society groups engaged with government officials to reform registration policies and investigate the incident.

Outcome

• Official Registration: The birth was successfully registered after community, legal, and media pressure.
• Union Council Apology: An official apology was issued and staff involved faced disciplinary action.
• Policy Reform: The birth registration process was streamlined and unnecessary barriers removed to ensure fairness for all religions.
• Ongoing Awareness: Interfaith campaigns and education programs continue to build a culture of inclusion and tolerance.

Conclusion

The Nasreen Hafeez family’s courage and unwavering commitment to justice underscore the power of grassroots advocacy and solidarity in combating systemic discrimination. Their journey demonstrates that even in the face of adversity, positive transformation is achievable. This case study stands as a testament to Bunyad’s mission to empower communities and defend fundamental rights, ensuring dignity, justice, and inclusion for every citizen regardless of faith.