Pope Demands Governments Protect Christian Minorities

Pope Benedict XVI

Pope Benedict XVI has demanded that governments do more to ensure that Christians can practice their faith without discrimination or violence.

In a speech to ambassadors accredited to the Vatican, Benedict cited recent attacks on Christians in Egypt, Iraq, and Nigeria, and said governments must take effective measures -- in law and in practice -- to protect religious minorities.

He called on Pakistan to repeal its anti-blasphemy law, saying the law serves as a pretext for violence against non-Muslims.

compiled from agency reports