| answer text |
<p>I issued a statement and video on social media marking International Religious
Freedom Day (IRFD). In addition, instructions were sent asking all Embassies and High
Commissions overseas to consider how they might mark the day in locally appropriate
ways. To coincide with IRFD I have writen to Ambassadors to underline the importance
of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) and to re-issue our revised FoRB "toolkit"
which supports our posts' work in this area. I was also pleased to speak at the launch
on 25 October of a new report 'Article 18: From Rhetoric to Reality' by the All Party
Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief.</p><p>The FCO
does not keep a comprehensive and exhaustive record of those states we consider to
be in breach of Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and therefore
cannot publish the details requested.</p><p>There are many examples to illustrate
the fact that the FCO continues to afford a high priority to FoRB. We promote FoRB
in many countries, including a number of our Human Rights Priority Countries where
FoRB is under pressure. We do this through diplomatic channels, public statements
and support for projects which promote tolerance. For example, during my recent visit
to Bangladesh, I visited an Ahmadiyya mosque for a multi-faith event at which I spoke
publicly of the importance of religious tolerance. I also met faith leaders during
recent visits to India and Ghana. The UK Government frequently raises concerns with
states where we see people face persecution or discrimination because of religion
or belief.</p><p>We also support the work of United Nations Special Procedures, such
as the Special Rapporteur for FoRB, to hold countries to account.</p><p>We are currently
working to develop a new FoRB strategy which will include encouraging a sharper focus
on FoRB issues by our posts overseas. On 23 October, I hosted a roundtable to discuss
with faith leaders and civil society how we might work together to promote FoRB. Our
commemoration of International Human Rights Day in December, will focus on the role
of faith leaders in promoting and protecting human rights, including FoRB.</p>
|
|
