The French governmental anti-cult mission was sentenced for its lack of transparency and refusal to disclose documents about its funding of private anti-cult associations. Massimo Introvigne reports in the Bitter Winter online magazine: “The French governmental anti-cult mission was sentenced for its lack of transparency and refusal to disclose documents about its funding of private…
A report celebrating the positive impact of interfaith work and Inter Faith Week, while acknowledging that its reach often remains limited to those already engaged in interfaith spaces, and is further challenged by societal and funding constraints was published recently. In its recommendations, the report calls on interfaith bodies to work collaboratively and courageously to…
The UN Human Rights Council experts criticized France’s football and basketball federations for banning hijab-wearing players, including at the amateur level, and the government’s decision to prevent hijab-wearing athletes from representing France at the Paris Olympics. They argued that these measures violate fundamental rights, including religious expression and cultural participation. The experts stated that France’s…
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…
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…
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…
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…
AFN is a signatory to a “letter to the incoming government” laying out a range of expectations that faith communities and related groups expect from this new government. The Letter is not exhaustive and certainly may not represent all groups but those signing, but it is the result of a new group, of which AFN…
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
