EU Statement – UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive dialogue on Freedom of Religion or Belief

Chair,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

Professor Ghanea,

Thank you for focusing your latest report on the importance of guaranteeing freedom of religion or belief for people “on the move”. As you note, this affects substantial and growing number of persons, many of whom may fall through the gaps between systems, and are left without proper protection.

This problem has long been recognised. In its 2013 Guidelines, the EU committed to “Pay particular attention to practices and legislation discriminating against … migrants on grounds of religion or belief…” But as you also rightly point out, what really matters is to put guidelines into action. This is why the European Union is reinforcing its actions aimed at promoting social inclusion and diversity, and increasing funding to protect public spaces and places of worship.

The freedom of thought and conscience is fundamental to everyone – of all faiths and of none – on the move, or not. Everyone is born with the right to have a religion or belief, or to have none, and to manifest or to change it. The EU condemns discrimination, intolerance, violence, and persecution on grounds of religion or belief, and rejects any form of incitement to hatred, including against persons belonging to religious minorities, who face increased persecution and attacks in many countries.

We also underline the importance of respecting the right to freedom of expression, which is mutually reinforcing with the freedom of religion or belief. One cannot exist without the other.

Special Rapporteur,

Running through your report are references to the role of misunderstandings and assumptions. What advice can you can share on building bridges and breaking down preconceptions?

Thank you.