Ban on hijab, niqab, burka in French sports under debate

Ban on hijab, niqab, burka in French sports under debate

The French National Assembly is set to debate a bill banning clothing linked to religious practice in sports after it was approved by the Senate. While not explicitly targeting Muslim head coverings, critics argue it discriminates against the Muslim community and could further alienate them. Proposed by right-wing Senator Michel Savin, the bill passed the…

The All Faiths Network organized launch of the “ABC of Hate Speech and Freedom of Religion or Belief”

The All Faiths Network organized launch of the “ABC of Hate Speech and Freedom of Religion or Belief”

On the evening of November 29th, the All Faiths Network held a significant event marking the launch of the new resource, The ABC of Hate Speech and Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB). This resource aims to provide practical tools and insights for addressing hate speech and safeguarding freedom of religion or belief. As we move…

Middle-East Conflict

Middle-East Conflict

We deeply appreciate the ceasefire in Gaza, which brings hope for peace and relief to countless lives. This critical pause allows much-needed humanitarian aid to reach Palestinian civilians and creates the opportunity to reunite hostages with their families after enduring more than 15 months in captivity. Let us continue to work toward lasting solutions and…

The UN News website reported on calls on Franceby Independent human rights experts  to reverse bans that prevent Muslim women and girls who wear the hijab from participating in sports, citing concerns that these restrictions are discriminatory and violate international human rights obligations. The UN Human Rights Council-appointed experts criticised the decision by the French football…

French law on sectarian deviance now targeting Catholics

French law on sectarian deviance now targeting Catholics

A conservative French Catholic is now being charged with ‘abuse of weakness’ (otherwise known as brainwashing). At the trial, based on reports by the MIVILUDES (French government department that fights against sectarian deviances) and anti-cult “experts,” and disgruntled ex-members, Father Bernard, the head of the congregation was accused of using psychological techniques to subjugate and…

Christian Observatory reports on intolerance and discrimination
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Christian Observatory reports on intolerance and discrimination

Another presentation made at the monthly meeting of the UK Freedom of Religion or Belief Forum (25th June) was presented by Anja Hoffmann, MA, Executive Director of OIDAC Europe.  The report, “Monitoring Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians: Growing Challenges to Religious Freedom in Europe” covers European i

Responses to new French law on “fight against sectarian deviances”
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Responses to new French law on “fight against sectarian deviances”

One of two presentations made at the monthly meeting of the UK Freedom of Religion or Belief Forum on the 25th June covered the French law on “The Fight Against Sectarian Deviances”, and gives more insight and understanding on how and where this discriminatory law comes from and it’s potential impact. The presentation is a…

Parliament meeting highlights Christianity’s role in defending human rights
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Parliament meeting highlights Christianity’s role in defending human rights

Members of the All Faiths Network attended a dinner in the UK Parliament hosted by MP Brendan O’Hara and organised by Bellwether International and Roots of Humanity Foundation. Bellwether International responds to freedom of religion or belief in pre- and post- genocide communities and works to prevent or protect communities in these conditions. The meeting…