One of the strategic ways Baptist World Alliance actively advocates for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FORB) for All is through our representatives to the United Nations. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18, reads as follows:
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.
Informing and educating our constituents about Article 18 of the declaration is key to how Baptist World Alliance is addressing FORB. We are committed to assisting our Global Baptist Family in participating in the Universal Periodic Review process of the United Nation’s Human Rights Council. By networking with other organizations that are also committed to FORB for All, our voices and witness are stronger.
Resources:
The Baptist World Alliance has made several formal Resolutions regarding Freedom of Religion or Belief for All. They can be found here.
Christer Daelander, 2018 recipient of the Denton and Janice Lotz Human Rights Award, has written a Bible Study on the theme of Liberation and Suffering. For many who live in places where their freedom of religion or belief is restricted, these paired themes are very relevant.
An excellent new resource initiated by the Swedish Mission Council that has gained considerable praise from various religious groups is the Nordic FORB website. The film series, available in seven different languages, provides an excellent introduction and overview into FORB. This resource is appropriate to share with small groups and the NorFORB includes instructions on how to utilize the films.*
The Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO) – This organization, of which BWA is a member, focuses on consultation with the United Nations (UN) on issues relating to NGO representation and involvement.*
Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)*
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF)*
*Note: The information found at the links above do not constitute any form of endorsement or approval by the Baptist World Alliance. The Baptist World Alliance is not responsible for any of the information on these websites.
To contact the BWA about FORB for All, email [email protected].