75% of the global population live in countries restricting the free and peaceful practice of religion. Abusive governments and extremist groups increasingly prevent individuals from practicing their faith through violence or repression.

The prevalence is more than just a human rights problem – it affects national and international security as well as wider humanitarian concerns. Situations of religious repression breed instability and foster extremism, generate refugee flows and mass migrations, while threatening other fundamental rights including freedom of expression, association and assembly.

The International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB) is a global network of parliamentarians and legislators from around the world committed to combatting religious persecution and advancing freedom of religion or belief, as defined by Article 18 of the UN Universal Declaration for Human Rights.

The IPPFoRB is centred around the Oslo Charter. All parliamentarians participating in the network must agree to the Charter’s principles to advance freedom of religion or belief for all.

In November 2014, the Oslo Charter was signed by over 20 parliamentarians from around the world at the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway. The Charter represents the foundation of the network and recognises the common goals and values of all participating parliamentarians. For each member, it is an expression of their commitment to advance freedom of religion or belief for all.