THE MARGINALIZATION OF THE HINDU VOICES IN INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCACY

Abstract

This paper examines the marginalization of Hindu voices in international human rights advocacy, highlighting the disparity in representation and attention given to the human rights abuses faced by Hindu communities globally. Despite being one of the largest religious groups in the world, Hindus often find their concerns underrepresented in international forums such as the United Nations Human Rights Council and Amnesty International. The paper provides an overview of the global Hindu population and documents specific cases of human rights abuses in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Maldives. It explores the social, economic, and psychological impacts of these abuses on affected communities and offers case studies where Hindu issues have been overlooked or inadequately addressed by international organizations. By conducting a comparative analysis of advocacy efforts for other religious minorities, such as Muslims, Christians, and Jews, the paper identifies factors contributing to the disparity in representation. Furthermore, it proposes strategies for increasing Hindu representation in global human rights discourse, including recommendations for policy changes within international bodies. The role of Hindu grassroots organizations, particularly the Sangh Parivar in India and abroad, as well as the Hindu diaspora, is also discussed in terms of their potential to advocate for and protect Hindu rights on the international stage.