Pakistan: Construction has officially begun on BACA’s first safe house in Pakistan—a vital sanctuary for persecuted Christian families, including blasphemy victims and survivors of sexual violence. This milestone marks the transition from vision to action, with the ground floor now under construction and a continued appeal to complete, furnish, and secure the safe house for those in urgent need.

On 4 February 2026, the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) formally began construction work on its first-ever permanent safe house in Pakistan. The old structure on the site has now been demolished, the land has been marked according to professional architectural plans, and foundation digging is underway. This moment represents far more than the start of building works—it marks a long-term commitment by BACA to protect lives, restore dignity, and provide safety to some of the most vulnerable Christian families in the country.

The safe house is being constructed to provide temporary but secure accommodation for families facing extreme danger due to persecution. This includes the families of blasphemy victims, who are often forced to flee their homes immediately after accusations, threats, or mob violence. For many, remaining in their communities is not only unsafe but potentially fatal. The safe house will offer these families a place of refuge where they can regroup, recover, and plan their next steps without fear.

The facility will also serve as a place of safety for rape victims and their families, who in Pakistan are frequently subjected to intimidation and coercion. Under the country’s Qisas and Diyat laws, families are often pressured by perpetrators or influential figures to accept so-called “compromise deals,” effectively silencing victims and denying justice. The BACA Safe House will provide a secure environment where survivors and their loved ones can stay temporarily, free from immediate threats, allowing them the space to heal and to seek legal and pastoral support without coercion.

At this stage, BACA is constructing the ground floor only, with the intention of making the safe house operational as quickly as possible. The ground floor will include secure bedrooms, a lounge area that can also be adapted for additional sleeping space in emergencies, an open kitchen, and dedicated office space. This office will function as a secure base for BACA’s operations in Pakistan, allowing staff to safely meet potential beneficiaries, conduct confidential interviews, store sensitive case files, and coordinate legal, medical, and emergency assistance.

The architectural plans have been carefully designed to allow for future expansion. When sufficient funds become available, BACA hopes to construct a second floor, enabling the safe house to accommodate more families simultaneously and respond to the growing need for emergency protection.

Beyond construction, there is still much work ahead. Once the building is completed, the safe house will need to be fully furnished to ensure families can live with dignity and comfort during their stay. In addition, BACA plans to employ a permanent on-site security officer, a crucial requirement to ensure the safety of residents, staff, and visitors at all times. These essential elements form part of BACA’s ongoing appeal to supporters.

Reflecting on the progress, BACA Trustee Juliet Chowdhry shared, “Seeing construction finally begin fills us with deep joy and gratitude. This safe house is not just bricks and mortar—it is a shield against violence, coercion, and fear. With continued support, it will soon become a place where families can breathe again.”

BACA hopes to complete the ground-floor construction within two months and to have the safe house functional before Easter 2026. While this is a moment of celebration, it is also a reminder that the journey is ongoing. With continued prayer, generosity, and support, this safe house will grow into a fully equipped sanctuary—one that saves lives, protects justice, and restores hope.

You can help bring this vision fully to life. By supporting BACA’s safe house appeal, you are helping to provide safety, security, and healing to persecuted Christian families who have nowhere else to turn.

Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee for British Asian Christian Association, said:

“This safe house represents a tangible promise of protection for families who have faced violence, coercion, and threats because of their faith. For too many Christian families in Pakistan, danger can arrive at any moment, and this refuge will provide safety for blasphemy victims, survivors of sexual violence, and others who have nowhere else to go. As we lay the foundation, we are reminded that every brick will shelter someone in need. We are deeply grateful that construction has begun, and we appeal to our supporters to help us furnish, staff, and fully secure this vital sanctuary so that it can offer safety, dignity, and renewed life to those who have lost so much.”