Pakistan
An Islamic republic. The government of Nawaz Sharif pursued a policy of Islamization of the legal system, taxation, public life and discrimination against all Muslim and non-Muslim religious minorities despite widespread popular misgivings. Shari'a law has been increasingly applied - even to Christians and Hindus - despite its contravention of the constitution. This gives numerous opportunities for the majority Sunni Muslims to oppress and persecute Shi'a Muslims, Ahmaddiya, Hindus and Christians. Despite promises, the government has backed away from regulating the procedure for blasphemy charges in the face of violent threats by Islamists. Yet there remains a surprising degree of religious freedom and the government regularly assures minorities of their freedom and opportunities under the law.