Global efforts to combat threats towards Freedom of Religion or Belief
The ‘Singapore Declaration of Freedom of Religion or Belief’ was adopted at an international conference in Singapore.
On 30-31 October, the ‘Upholding a Rules Based System on Freedom of Religion or Belief’ Conference was held Singapore where 70 MPs from 40 countries lend a strong voice in favour of protecting the global right to freedom of religion or belief for all. The Conference also saw the attendance of ambassadors, ministers, experts and relevant stakeholders.
David Anderson, Chair of IPPFoRB Steering Committee launching the Singapore Declaration of Freedom of Religion or Belief
Grace Fu, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth attended the Conference as the Guest of Honour and delivered the welcome address. She presented Singapore's efforts since its independence for a peaceful co-existence of the numerous religions and cultures represented in the city-state.
Previously held in New York and Berlin, this is the third conference of its kind organized by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) and the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB).
Calling on MPs to lead the way, David Anderson, MP, Canada and Steering Committee Chair of IPPFoRB said, ‘’ Participants are coming from different parts of Africa, Asia, Europe and Americas, the diversity is very exciting! I look forward to interacting with MPs and relevant stakeholders on the topic of freedom of religion or belief.’’
At the Conference, MPs specifically touched upon two relevant themes - freedom of religion or belief in multi-religious societies and the relationship between religion or belief & women’s rights.
‘‘Members of parliament should use their political influence to foster an environment of change. They should not only cope with other religions and beliefs, but also engage with them in a serious and nonetheless sober fashion – that’s a central part of democracy’’, added Dr. Nobert Lammert, Chairman of KAS
Abid Raja, Vice President of Parliament and MP, Norway and Steering Committee member of IPPFoRB adds, ‘’We as parliamentarians have our work cut out after this Conference – to go back home and implement the commitments which we made when signing the Singapore Declaration for Freedom of Religion or Belief’
‘A long-lasting and unique commitment’
One of the key outcomes of this high-level gathering was the launch of the ‘Singapore Declaration of Freedom of Religion or Belief’, which was adopted and signed by over 60 parliamentarians at the Conference who committing to uphold and advance freedom of religion or belief.
Kasthuri Patto, MP from Malaysia raising a question during one of the sessions at the Conference.
‘‘This year we have witnessed several attacks on religious or belief communities worldwide. Attacks such as on Christchurch in New Zealand, Sri Lanka and others are a reminder to the world to strengthen efforts and dialogue on the topic of freedom of religion or belief. Therefore a widespread commitment to such a declaration is highly needed’’, said Anderson.
Recognizing that the threats to freedom of religion or belief are constantly evolving, the Declaration endorsed signatories to focus on six thematic commitments. Amongst others, commitments range from advocating for abolishing blasphemy and apostasy laws, and ensure prohibition of racial or religious hatred, as well as promote respect for non-discrimination and non-coercion.
Nqabayomzi Kwankwa MP from South Africa signing the Declaration
“MPs are in a unique position to be defenders of freedom of religion or belief and as advocates upholding the principles of human rights and harmonious co-existence in their own diverse countries with each, its own uniqueness. We must be the change we wish to see“, Kasthuri Patto, MP from Malaysia said while signing the declaration.
“With this declaration, we resolve to move beyond words and to take bold and specific steps in the promotion of freedom of religion or belief around the world”, Nqabayomzi Kwankwa MP from South Africa said, also while signing.
‘’This is a long-lasting and unique commitment from parliamentarians. Now it is up to them to take these commitments back to their countries to implement them’’, said Anderson.
The signed Declaration will also be sent to António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, after the Conference.
The parliamentarians support this resolution in their personal capacity and not as representatives of their government, political party or any other body.