PRESS RELEASE : UN HRC52 – Statement on Freedom of Religion and Belief [March 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 14 March 2023.

During the 52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, the UK delivered a statement on Freedom of Religion and Belief on 13 March 2023.

Thank you, Mr President.

We congratulate the Special Rapporteur on her appointment and welcome her initial report.

We welcome the collaboration between the Special Rapporteur and member states through her ex-officio membership of the Council of Experts of the growing International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance. We also value her discussions with the International Contact Group on FoRB.

The UK’s resolve to promote and protect the right to freedom of religion or belief has been strengthened by the injustices we see around the world including systemic discrimination directed against individuals on the basis of their religion or belief.

The UK government remains committed to championing freedom of religion or belief for all. Last July we hosted the International Ministerial Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief in London which was an important milestone. We are working hard to build on its momentum and turn words into action.

Special Rapporteur,

How best can international efforts of governments, civil society and faith and belief leaders be focussed and coordinated to effect concrete changes, including for those imprisoned on account of their faith or belief?

Thank you.