The International Ministerial Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief
Author: Maanvi Chawla, CGP Summer Intern
The conference brought together over 600 faith, belief, government and civil society leaders from 100 countries to urge increased global action on Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) for all. It was the first of its kind to be held in the UK on this theme and built on previous conferences held in the USA and Poland.
UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, in her opening speech, called out abuses carried out against religious minorities around the world, including in China, Nigeria and Afghanistan, and said that religion is “collateral damage” in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In order to boost efforts to promote freedom of religion or belief internationally, the UK pledged £500,000 of funding to support everyone’s “fundamental freedom” to follow a religion or belief.
What were the key commitments made in this conference?
To raise awareness of the current challenges to FoRB across the world.
To speak out against violations of FoRB bilaterally and through multilateral institutions.
Work closely with international partners, civil society actors, human rights experts, academia and faith and belief actors to implement practical solutions to address FoRB challenges.
Strengthen the voices and build the capacity of defenders of FoRB.
Annually mark the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief on 22 August.
Promote the protection of religion or belief in conflict or insecure environments and ensure the meaningful inclusion of marginalized religious or belief minorities in all aspects of peace-making.
Listen to young people, their ideas and initiatives, amplify their voices, and make them a part of the decision-making process on advancing freedom of religion or belief.
Protect human rights online by working with tech companies and other stakeholders.
Support teaching that promotes the equality of all individuals, regardless of their religion.
Promote the protection of places of worship and condemn violations of international law pertaining to the protection of places of worship and cultural heritage.
Uphold and protect gender equality, non-discrimination and freedom of religion or belief.
Enhance space for civic engagement in government policy decisions and support civil society initiatives that promote respect for FoRB.
