1. The Bible highlights the importance of freedom of religion and that faith should be practiced without compulsion.
"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (2 Corinthians 3:17)
2. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes freedom of religion as a cornerstone of human rights.
"Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance." (Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18)
3. We acknowledge the reality of religious extremism and we firmly oppose it in all its forms.
Faith should never be a weapon of division or violence. Extremism deforms the essence of true religion which is founded on love, respect and justice.
4. We call for governments to affirm laws and policies that respect and protect the freedom of religion.
This will foster a society where diverse beliefs are embraced and respected. "The freedom to profess and practice religion, or to choose not to, is one of the hallmarks of a free society. When such freedom is respected, it creates a foundation for a community where diverse beliefs can coexist in harmony." — The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and principles of religious freedom advocacy.
5. Our Commitment:
We stand for a balanced approach: defending the right to faith while promoting peace and rejecting ideologies that misuse religion to justify harm.