This week, the International Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) was held in London, an honor for the UK.
At the event, there were 100 media representatives, 47 promises from nations, international organizations, and entities, 31 countries that signed up for 8 statements, and 17 subject sessions.
More than 800 religious, political, and civil society leaders from more than 100 nations and all seven continents gave useful advice on how to safeguard freedom of religion or belief worldwide.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights’ Article 18 addresses this essential right. Of course, our common OSCE commitments and work also adequately cover it.
This comprises the pledges made in Copenhagen in 1990 about the right to the freedom of expression, of the mind, and of the practice of one’s faith, as well as via the actual work of ODHIR.
Despite freely adhering to OSCE obligations on freedom of religion or belief, Russia has had an impact on people’s capacity to practice their religion or belief through its aggressive war in Ukraine.
Innocent citizens have been observed seeking refuge in places of worship from Russia’s indiscriminate bombing. Mosques, synagogues, and churches are all in ruins. Putin’s assault is proven to cause collateral harm in the form of religion and belief.
Thus, the timing of this conference is excellent. It offered a crucial chance to exchange best practices and establish global coalitions like the International Alliance for Belief or Religious Freedom.
We appreciate the national commitments made by several states to cooperate in promoting FoRB today.
A further £500,000 in funding was announced by the UK to support everyone’s “basic freedom” to practice any religion or belief.
Included in this are £200,000 for the defense and promotion of FoRB and £300,000 to offer British legal assistance to nations where FoRB is under attack.
Mr. Chair, more cooperation is required if we are to guarantee that everyone has access to the freedom of religion or belief.
Making sure we fulfill our OSCE obligations is a great place to start. I’m grateful.