Greetings of peace and blessing.
October 27 marks the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Day that celebrates the diverse societies in which we live. This day highlights the importance of advancing the right to freedom of religion or belief for all.
On this day, URI would like to extend its solidarity with the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief and stand in support of freedom of religion or belief for everyone, everywhere.
On this occasion, URI would like also to call upon member states of the United Nations to uphold the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 18, which says, “Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.”
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948. It was born of the international community’s determination to never again witness the atrocities that were perpetrated against human beings during the Second World War. Therefore, alongside the UN Charter document, world leaders drew up a road map to guarantee the rights of individuals across the globe.
The International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB) is a network of parliamentarians from around the world committed to combating religious persecution and advancing freedom of religion or belief, as defined by Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
May Peace Prevail on Earth.