Abstract:

Freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) is an increasingly prominent focus in international relations practice and study, and an ideal for inclusive and peaceful societies. However, the consensus as to reasons for violations and the significance of different forms of violations is weak. Both judgments and policies promoting FoRB can be divisive, with notable concerns about interference in domestic affairs and possible bias in application. Promoting FoRB is nonetheless a leading priority for some governments and communities, who view it as essential to understanding issues of peace, justice, and citizenship. Hot issues centre on the right of the individual to change religious affiliation, understanding limits of blasphemy and appropriate response, the definition of and approach to religious minorities, and gender rights. These in turn highlight the right to proselytise, and religious dimensions of family law. In several long-standing conflicts where religious identity is prominent, the rights, treatment, and aspirations of religious minorities are central issues. This has encouraged more active participation by religious actors and notably interreligious organisations in peacebuilding processes. The topic of FoRB overlaps with current approaches to engaging with religious communities in policy matters (including in the COVID-19 emergency), which in turn highlights limited religious literacy of many who occupy policy positions.