Religious freedom under threat across the world

An increased international focus on protection of religious freedom is required to combat the worldwide persecution, torture and killing of Christians, says Cross-bench Peer, Lord Alton.

The Peer made the statement whilst leading a debate calling on the House of Lords to note that Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was “under threat in almost every corner of the world”.

Lord Alton asked the House to take note of international compliance with Article 18 and said greater devotion to the protection of religious freedom was required. Article 18 of the UDHR stipulates that, "Everyone shall have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.”

Lord Alton drew on many international examples of the persecution of Christians around the world. Christians in Iran were subject to torture, raids, and threats of execution for their beliefs. He said Iraq’s second largest city did not have a Christian community due to “religious cleansing” and he told Peers, “anyone who stays and refuses to convert will be crucified.” In Syria, 75 Dutch Jesuits had been murdered, illustrating why 450,000 Christians had fled. In China, protestant and Catholic churches were persecuted for their faith. 

“There are many benefits to a nation which promotes freedom of religion,” he added, explaining that societies which denied freedom were “unhappy.”  

“This can be measured by the link between economics and religious freedom. A society which promotes religious freedom will be enlivened and enriched. Those which don’t will be in decay.”

Lord Bach supported the cross-bench member saying Lord Alton’s motion was “right and action is necessary”. He said the House looked forward to hearing what the Government proposed to do about the situation.

Read the full debate here (Hansard) >