Seminar Urges Pakistani Catholic Youth to Know their Rights and Constitutional Framework

A regional youth awareness seminar in Quetta urged Catholic young people to understand their fundamental rights, constitutional protections and civic responsibilities while taking an active role in building a peaceful and inclusive Pakistan.

The seminar, titled “Youth Working for Youth,” was held on September 26 at Caritas Hall, Bishop’s House, in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan. Organized by the Diocesan Youth Commission (DYC) Quetta, the event brought together 60 to 70 young men and women from parishes and churches across the province, along with clergy, educators and political leaders.

The seminar focused on civic engagement, human rights, constitutional guarantees and the role of young people in contributing to their communities and the wider nation.

Sawera Shahid hosted the program, while Fr. Samson Shaker, director of the Diocesan Youth Commission, outlined the objectives of the initiative, emphasizing the need to empower young people to become responsible agents of social change.

Adeel Bhatti, coordinator of the commission, spoke about the scope of the initiative, highlighting moral values, social awareness and civic responsibility as important elements in community development.

One of the main sessions, “Know Your Rights and Constitutional Framework,” was led by Rohail Arsalan, president of Holy Rosary Cathedral Youth and coordinator of the Pontifical Mission Societies.

Arsalan introduced participants to fundamental rights guaranteed under Pakistan’s 1973 Constitution, relevant provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code and international standards contained in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The session was followed by an interactive discussion in which participants raised questions about legal protections, equality and their responsibilities as citizens.

In his keynote address, Archbishop Sebastian Francis Shaw, Apostolic Vicar of Quetta, stressed the importance of young people to Pakistan’s future.

“The role of the younger generation is extremely important in the security, development, and prosperity of Pakistan,” Archbishop Shaw said.

He encouraged young people to pursue education, participate in constructive social initiatives and use their talents for the good of society.

“Our desire is for young people to advance in education, participate in positive social initiatives, and use their talents to serve the country and nation,” he said.

Aneel Ghouri, a political minority leader representing the National Party, also addressed the gathering. He encouraged young people to participate actively in democratic processes, education and national development.

“Instilling an appreciation for fundamental rights, mutual tolerance, interfaith harmony, and democratic values among young people is an urgent necessity of our time,” Ghouri said.

During a feedback session, participants welcomed the opportunity to learn more about their legal rights and civic responsibilities. Several said such programs helped build confidence and encouraged a stronger sense of responsibility toward their communities.

Participants also called for similar awareness programs to be organized regularly at the parish level across Balochistan.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr. Shaker. Fr. Imtiaz Faryad and Fr. Samran Boota, along with the speakers and organizing team, were thanked for their participation. Certificates were distributed to the participants in recognition of their engagement in the seminar.