Minorities in Indo-Mediterranean region face increasing threats

The Indo-Mediterranean region is facing serious challenges as conflicts and human rights abuses increase. Women, ethnic, and religious minorities are particularly affected. Radical groups are gaining power, worsening the situation for vulnerable populations. Global leaders are calling for united action to protect human rights and fight against radicalization. Many ongoing conflicts are overshadowed by the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel's military actions against Hamas. In Afghanistan, the Taliban has taken complete control and is working to gain international recognition. However, they have severely restricted women's rights, including banning them from work and education. Afghan women are often confined to their homes, while religious minorities are fleeing the country. In Pakistan, Afghan refugees are being sent back to Taliban-controlled areas during harsh winter conditions. Violence against minority groups, including Hindus, Christians, and Ahmadis, is rising as political instability grows. Bangladesh has also seen troubling developments, with the recent replacement of elected leader Sheikh Hasina by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. Minority groups in Bangladesh now face more persecution, with businesses destroyed and leaders arrested on false charges. Syria's situation is also harsh, as the Muslim Brotherhood-inspired group HTS has taken power, leading to fear among minorities such as Kurds and Alawites. Women and children, who are already vulnerable, are suffering the most as radical groups gain control. To raise awareness of these issues, a panel titled "Indo-Mediterranean: Radicalization and Human Rights" took place at the United Nations in Geneva. Senator Marco Dreosto emphasized the duty of politics to protect vulnerable groups, including persecuted Christians and women. He highlighted the need for collective action against radicalization to protect those at risk. Other speakers at the panel echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of education and democracy in securing a better future. Italian MP Naike Gruppioni noted that recent changes in Afghanistan have severely harmed women's rights, while underlining the courage of individuals resisting oppression. Erik Selle from Norway's Christian Conservative Party warned against complacency in the face of declining human rights. The rise of radical groups from Bangladesh to Syria raises concerns for the future of the Indo-Mediterranean region, which has significant historical religious importance. Panel moderator Vas Shenoy called for united efforts against radicalization, urging protection for all ethnic and religious minorities, regardless of their location.