News

Ashton: freedom of religion or belief top of EU’s agenda

20-01-2011

“I am fully committed to keeping freedom of religion or belief at the top of the EU’s agenda,” said the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, commenting on the situation of Christians in the context of religious freedom at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
 
Ashton expressed her concern about the recent violence against persons belonging to religious minorities, stressing that “the EU condemns all forms of intolerance and violence against persons because of their religion or belief, wherever it takes place”.
 
She went on to comment on the situation of Christian communities in the Middle-East, expressing the EU’s support. “Long-established Christian communities in the Middle East face difficulties, which have led to significant displacement in some countries and dwindling numbers in the region as a whole. The EU will not turn a blind eye to their plight. We consider their demand to have their rights respected as citizens of their own country as entirely legitimate. Freedom of conscience, religion or belief belongs to everyone, and every state has the duty to ensure that it is respected. The EU stands ready to enhance its cooperation with governments to combat intolerance and protect human rights.”
 
The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy also urged countries to eradicate discrimination and intolerance, adding: “The EU Delegations closely monitor such issues around the world, and the EU’s next annual human rights report this spring will address the situation of religious minorities around the world.”
 
Press release
 
European Parliament - Christians in Middle East: MEPs condemn persecution, discrimination based on religion
 
 

 


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