IPPFoRB welcomes Norwegian MP Abid Raja as the new Chair of Steering Group

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Oslo, Norway – Norwegian parliamentarian Abid Raja is all set to join as the new Chair of IPPFoRB Steering Group. As a long-time defender of freedom of religion or belief, Raja has been instrumental in advancing dialogue and actions on strengthening this human right, both nationally and internationally.

‘’Freedom of religion or belief is a crucial human right that more than often gets violated, politicized or ignored, especially in the situation of at-risk individuals and communities. As parliamentarians, we must use our influence and voice to move forward the protection and promotion of this human right, not only in our own countries but also globally. In IPPFoRB, we are driven by our vision to achieve a world where everyone can enjoy their human right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief. I am both honored and proud to be contributing in achieving this vision with our partners around the world.’’, said Raja.

As one of the founding members of IPPFoRB and a former member of the Steering Committee (until 2020), Abid has had a long relationship with the network. In Norway, Abid has been the Minister of Culture and Equality (2020-2021) in the Norwegian government, established a political think tank called Minotenk and contributed to multiple parliamentary delegations and committees, amongst other things. In 2017, he was awarded the International Religious Liberty Association Award for his work on freedom of religion or belief.