Working group on freedom of religion or belief launched

As a member of the UK Freedom of Religion or Belief Forum (UK FF), AFN launched a Working Group on freedom of religion or belief in Europe on 24th February 2023. Fortuitously, this was a special meeting held at No. 10 Downing Street and some 50 members of the Forum attended (with many more via video link) including the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Fiona Bruce MP. The UK FF (https://www.ukforbforum.org/) The UK FoRB Forum brings together civil society groups, faith or belief organisations, and human rights NGOs to advance the cause of freedom of religion or belief around the world.

Martin Weightman, AFN’s Director, said: “The UK FF is bringing people together who are covering some of the most egregious and brutal acts against religion or belief internationally. Whilst we will not find this level of discrimination in European countries it is vital to also have a focus on what is happening much closer to home where there are certainly serious issues to cover. AFN will be working with a wide range of individuals and groups to explore and raise issues of discrimination in Europe.

“We are currently exploring the key issues to take up initially and welcome any feedback from members of society who have anything to report or see discrimination issues that need to be raised.”