The presence of Chinese police in Hungary is not just a fleeting event; it marks a potentially transformative moment in Hungary’s foreign relations and internal security strategies. As the collaboration between Budapest and Beijing deepens, analysts are closely monitoring how this shift will affect Hungary’s role within the European Union, where skepticism towards Chinese influence has heightened in recent years.
Critics of the partnership argue that it could lead to a normalization of foreign police presence on EU soil, which raises fundamental questions about the protection of individual rights. The EU has long upheld values of democracy and human rights, and the introduction of officers from an authoritarian regime like China’s presents a stark contrast to those principles. Human rights organizations within Europe are voicing their concerns, warning that normalizing such cooperation could embolden repressive practices in Hungary and possibly in neighboring countries as well.
Furthermore, this collaboration occurs against a backdrop of geopolitical tension, particularly as the West grapples with the implications of China’s global ambitions. The United States and its allies have been increasingly vigilant regarding China’s influence in Eastern Europe, viewing Hungary’s actions as a potential gateway for further Chinese penetration into the EU.
Hungary’s ongoing partnership with China is part of a broader trend wherein Central and Eastern European countries are increasingly looking to Beijing for investment and strategic alliances. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “16+1 initiative,” has drawn a mixed response from EU officials who worry that it undermines the union’s cohesive stance on issues such as human rights and security.
As public awareness of the implications of this collaboration grows, it remains to be seen how the Hungarian government will navigate the pushback from civil society and EU institutions. The coming months will be critical as Hungary assesses its commitment to longstanding democratic values in light of its evolving relationship with China.
URI is known as the largest international grassroots interfaith cooperation organization in the world. It brings people of all faiths together in more than 100 countries on all continents. We had the opportunity to interview Eric Roux, its newly elected Chair.
In a world like ours, where conflicts are increasingly covering the face of the earth, and where religions have failed to prevent it, if not contributed to it, why would interfaith matter?
I wouldn’t say that “religions failed” more than “governments failed” or “the UN failed”, “the OSCE failed”, etc. In fact, if you want to put the blame on someone, you should say that we, as humanity, have failed until now to prevent wars and conflicts. None of us can exclude ourselves from the responsibility of our world. But blame does not solve anything. Many people think of interfaith as an activity where some people from two or three mainstream religions meet and come out with a wishy-washy statement calling for world peace. That’s not what it is.
We, at URI, do interfaith cooperation. That means that we bring people together, from different faiths, the more inclusive the better, and we make sure that we work together toward a specific purpose. So let’s say that your interfaith cooperation group is working on environmental issues. Their primary focus will be to be efficient in that field. But one immediate side effect will be that they will have to share the space with their fellows from other religions, to share the same reality of their mission, and to communicate together to accomplish their goals. The result will be that they will understand each other, will become friends, and that itself contribute to a more peaceful world. Of course, it’s all about the scope and size of these activities. It requires a lot, a huge lot of cooperation to have a noticeable effect at global level.
So, how does it work, concretely?
In URI, it’s the grassroots which leads the effort. We have more than 1,200 groups on the ground, all over the world, which we call “cooperation circles”. They are composed of people of different religions or spiritual traditions, who have decided to work together to create a positive impact in specific fields. Some are engaged in the restoration of the environment and the preservation of the Earth from the consequences of the climate change. Some will focus on the prevention of religiously motivated violence and organize healing sessions between communities at odd to create communication between them. Some are focusing on artistic performances that bring together people who otherwise would never learn from each other. Some are working against the proliferation of nuclear weapons, along with the UN. Others will dedicate themselves to protect the rights of indigenous communities when their spiritual traditions are endangered by bigotry and vested interests. As well as dozens of other topics or sub-topics. But at the end of the day they all contribute to the purpose of URI, which is to promote enduring, daily interfaith cooperation, to end religiously motivated violence and to create cultures of peace, justice, and healing for the Earth and all living beings.
At a lunch organized by the Sikh community, Parliament of the World Religions 2023
And how would you describe the difference between URI and other interfaith organizations?
It’s the grassroots component which really makes the difference. Several big interfaith organizations put the stress on religious leaders, mainly from the big religious organizations. While bringing aboard religious leaders is important, we believe that to really create a broad impact, you need to give a chance to everyone to contribute. And you can be surprised by some people of faith or not who don’t hold any title, and are not religious leaders, and can in fact be leaders in their community when it comes to advancing the good. It’s not that we criticize other international interfaith organizations, as we are partners and they do a great and crucial job, but ours is a vital complement to it. Both is necessary: religious leaders, and individuals who want to dedicate their life, or part of their life, to bring about a better world where people of all faiths or none can live together in harmony. I am not saying we are the only ones to do that, but that’s what makes us special, as an large international organization.
In fact, the board of trustees in URI is made of people who are grassroots interfaith activists, from all regions of the globe. They are elected by the cooperation circles themselves, among themselves. It’s not top-down, it’s bottom-up, and finally circling in a virtuous way. Those who know the difficulties on the ground are those who will help URI defining its strategy to overcome the challenges. They are helped and supported by a staff made of people who are super-dedicated to interfaith and to the purpose of URI. Being a staff in URI, whether you are the Executive Director, a Senior Director, a regional coordinator or any other post, is not a normal job. It’s a mission, a peace-making mission which is led by people who are heart and soul for fostering understanding and collaboration between people of all faiths and spiritual traditions.
Sorry to ask a provocative question, but do you really believe that an organization like URI is able to bring peace on Earth, end religiously motivated violence and bring justice to all living beings?
You know, the bad behaviors behind wars and violence are contagious. But so are positive behaviors. Most of the people are interested in living their life in harmony with others. Very few are those who really love war. When they see examples of good behaviors between people who have different backgrounds, they find hope again.
Few days ago, I received a message from one of our cooperation circles in Sri Lanka, as they had started a project to restore the mangrove ecosystems in a lagoon in Puttalam District. That may sound minor, but it’s not. First of all, when they do that, they bring together members of the surrounding villages who come to participate to the action, and all of them mingle with people who don’t have the same faith than them, sharing a joyful experience of doing something positive for their society. That’s much more powerful than bad behavior, as that will stay in their soul as a sunny truth. Those people will be much more difficult to convert to violence, as they have tasted the good of living together in peace and cooperating toward positive goals. That will not stop the war in the Middle East, you can tell me. Well, I guess not, unless you believe in the butterfly effect. But let’s say that around the lagoon, only 1,000 people noticed it. Their lives are changed by it. You multiply this by 1,200 (the number of cooperation circles) and 365 days in a year, and you start having quite a better number of people touched by positive interfaith cooperation. But even if it was just that 1,000 people in Sri Lanka, it would be worth it. Not to mention the positive effect on the mangrove, which will enable future generations to survive better.
URI volunteers in the mangrove, Sri Lanka
I’m not saying it’s enough. We are very aware of the need to grow and increase the cooperation, everywhere, anytime, if we want to have a chance to counterbalance the chaos created by a few. But we know by experience that this is the way: bringing people together and have them work toward a common positive goal, where all have a chance to help, contribute, and create.
I would add this little thing: yes, the world is not doing well, and yes there are wars and conflicts, religious persecutions, injustice, bigotry, hate speech, terrorism as well as a tremendous environmental challenge nowadays. Nevertheless, we should never forget that beautiful things exist too, and that many things in the world are doing well. A lot of people are working for the good, a lot of initiatives are bringing about a better world, most of the people like each other, miracles of life happen every day, and that is the most important thing in humanity, as well as in the creation as a whole. We, the people, know how to do magic. It’s just a matter of doing more in favor of a better world, and not accepting anymore the bad things as a fatality.
So yes, we believe we can do something, and we also believe we can fulfill our mission to a complete success. Are we dreamers? Certainly, but who says a dream can’t come true?
I hope so. Honestly, in URI, the role of the Chair is to serve. The former Chair, Preeta Bansal, was fantastic and brought URI to new heights in terms of setting its innovative organizational form and bringing a renewed grassroots vision. And behind URI, you have the vision of a giant, its founder Bishop Bill Swing, who dreamed it and made it a reality, bringing the vision of a few to a movement that touches millions in only two decades. So I just see myself as a servant of the 1,200 cooperation circles that do the job every day, of my fellow trustees who have a long experience of serving their communities, and a partner of the Executive Director Jerry White, and the staff who dedicate their time to help cooperation circles to grow and act. I love URI, I love the people in it, I love the people in general, and I believe that it has the true potential of bringing about a better world. So why should I save my energy on it?
The Faith and Freedom Summit IV, held on September 24-25 at the Latin American Parliament in Panama City, brought together a diverse coalition of voices advocating for religious freedom and peaceful coexistence. With more than 40 international speakers representing a wide array of beliefs—including Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Scientologists, Indigenous Mayans, Sikhs, Hindus, and non-believers—the summit served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration. Among the keynote speakers was UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Dr. Nazila Ghanea.
In a significant address delivered digitally at the Faith and Freedom Summit held at the Latin American Parliament in Panama, Dr. Nazila Ghanea, highlighted the critical role of ensuring that no one suffers discrimination or violations of human rights due to their religion or belief. Despite her inability to attend in person, Dr. Ghanea’s speech touched on various pertinent themes that are central to the global efforts to safeguard this fundamental freedom.
Dr. Ghanea began her remarks by emphasizing the collective responsibility that each one of us shares in upholding freedom of religion or belief. She stated, “We have gathered…in recognition of the responsibilities we shoulder in ensuring that nobody is discriminated [against] on grounds of their religion or belief, and that each and every one of us is able to enjoy freedom of religion or belief.” The summit brought together participants from across the globe, both in-person and digitally, to reaffirm the importance of advancing these rights for all.
Diplomacy and Freedom of Religion or Belief:
One of the key themes Dr. Ghanea highlighted was the intersection of diplomacy and the protection of religious freedoms. She referred to the report AHRC 5238, presented to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2023, which focused on the global landscape of freedom of religion or belief. The report draws attention to the increasing number of actors involved in this diplomacy and calls on them to uphold the universality and indivisibility of human rights. Despite the growing engagement, Dr. Ghanea warned that “the challenge before us remains great,” urging for sustained efforts in this area.
Regional and International Cooperation:
Dr. Ghanea underlined the significance of collaboration between regional and international systems for protecting religious freedoms. She noted the productive engagement between her mandate and regional bodies like the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the Inter-American Court. “It’s critical that we are informed, we are open, and we leave the option for collaboration,” she stressed. Such cooperation is essential to sharing best practices, lending support, and even taking joint actions where possible.
Grassroots and Civil Society Involvement:
Another crucial theme in Dr. Ghanea’s speech was the role of national systems, civil society, and grassroots movements in promoting freedom of religion or belief. She referenced her October 2023 report (A78207) to the UN General Assembly, which examined this right from a grassroots perspective. “If we don’t consider it from the viewpoint of the beneficiary, that is everyone, then what is the point of freedom of religion or belief?” she asked rhetorically. Dr. Ghanea emphasized that state actors have a legal obligation, while non-state actors carry the responsibility to ensure this right is fully realized.
At the national level, she stressed that the state’s obligation extends to various authorities, from federal to municipal levels, and that these actors must be aware, trained, and held accountable. Non-state actors, particularly civil society, play a vital role in strengthening national policies and holding governments accountable to their international human rights obligations.
Media’s Role in Promoting Religious Freedom:
Dr. Ghanea also touched upon the media’s impact on promoting or hindering freedom of religion or belief. She referred to the report AHRC 5547, presented in March 2024, which discussed the role of media and civil society in countering advocacy of hatred based on religion or belief. She emphasized that media responses, alongside state and civil society actions, can be transformative in promoting religious tolerance and understanding.
Religions and Beliefs as Instruments of Peace:
Towards the conclusion of her speech, Dr. Ghanea referred to her upcoming report (A79182) on peace and freedom of religion or belief, to be presented in October 2024. The report explores how religious freedom can foster peacebuilding and conflict prevention. “Freedom of religion or belief creates the conditions, motivations, rationales, and movements for peace to emerge,” she stated, highlighting the potential of this fundamental right to not only ensure personal freedoms but also to serve as a cornerstone for global peace and stability.
Conclusion: A Call for Continued Collaboration and Vigilance:
Dr. Ghanea’s speech ended on a note of optimism and a call for continued vigilance and collaboration in securing freedom of religion or belief. Congratulating the summit organizers for curating such a relevant and impactful program, she reaffirmed the critical importance of drawing attention to both state and non-state actors’ responsibilities in securing this right. She also expressed hope that the summit would sharpen collaboration between political leaders, religious figures, human rights advocates, academics, and others in achieving greater effectiveness in safeguarding freedom of religion or belief for all.
Dr. Ghanea extended her best wishes for the success of the summit and expressed her eagerness to hear about its findings. Her message underscored the shared commitment to upholding one of humanity’s most fundamental freedoms, ensuring that every person, regardless of their faith or belief, can live without fear of discrimination or oppression.
“So to sum up, I congratulate the organisers for sketching out such a pertinent programme of work for the summit and join all of you in prioritising and recognising the critical obligations of state authorities in securing this right for everyone and drawing attention to the significant responsibilities of the rest of us towards the same objective.” concluded Ghanea.
The Faith and Freedom Summit IV was organised by a coalition of NGOs dedicated to the promotion of religious freedom and peaceful coexistence, and was attended by numerous personalities such as the OAS Representative in Panama H.E. Mr Rubén Farje, Reverend Giselle Lima (Co-Coordinator of the Panama Roundtable on Religious Freedom in Panama, Mr. Iván Arjona-Pelado (recently appointed Chair of the NGO Committee on FoRB for the United Nations in Geneva and who presented the web www.whatisfreedomofreligion.org from the Church of Scientology), Ms. Maureen Ferguson who is one of the USCIRF Commissioners, Jan Figel (former EU Special Envoy on FoRB) and it was opened and closed by the Minister In Charge of Interior and Minister In Charge of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Panama, plus ambassadors from different countries.
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has proudly launched its latest publication, “Belief, Dialogue, and Security: Fostering Dialogue and Joint Action Across Religious and Belief Boundaries.” This guide aims to provide practical advice and resources for states and non-state actors to promote dialogue and cooperation among diverse religious and belief communities, enhancing social trust and security across the OSCE region.
In its website, it says that “ODIHR has developed this guide in response to calls from participating States to give them guidance and practical tools to help them create an environment that enables fruitful dialogue and joint action across religious and belief boundaries. The guide does not push a ‘one‑size‑fits‑all’ model, instead offering guidance about the questions and factors states should consider when approaching the subject. It discusses how to select initiatives and support them in practice. It includes examples of good practice and interviews with actors engaged in dialogue and joint action initiatives across a broad range of contexts.“
In a world marked by increasing religious and belief pluralism, the need for constructive dialogue has never been more pressing. The foreword by ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci emphasizes that while diversity enriches societies, it can also lead to fragmentation if not managed properly. The guide outlines the importance of fostering high levels of tolerance and social trust, which are essential for peaceful coexistence.
The publication is structured into several chapters, each addressing critical aspects of fostering dialogue:
Freedom of Thought, Conscience, Religion, or Belief (FoRB): The guide discusses the fundamental human right of FoRB, its limitations, and the grounds for these limitations, providing a comprehensive legal framework.
Dialogue and Joint Action: It emphasizes the role of states in enabling, rather than leading, dialogue initiatives. Trust and voluntary participation are highlighted as essential components for successful interfaith dialogue.
The Role of the State: The guide outlines how states can support dialogue initiatives while ensuring respect for human rights, even-handedness, and transparency.
Projects and Funding Calls: Practical advice is provided on designing funding calls and assessing applications to support dialogue initiatives effectively.
Checklist for States: A practical checklist is included to guide states in their efforts to promote dialogue and joint action.
Methodology and Contributions
The guide is the result of extensive consultations with experts from various fields, including civil society representatives, academics, and government officials. Notable contributions came from members of the ODIHR panel of experts on freedom of religion or belief, who provided valuable insights and recommendations.
“Belief, Dialogue, and Security” serves as a vital resource for policymakers, religious leaders, and civil society actors committed to fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation. By promoting respect for FoRB and other human rights, the guide aims to contribute to the creation of peaceful, pluralistic societies across the OSCE region. As the world grapples with the challenges of diversity, this publication stands as a beacon of hope for constructive engagement and mutual understanding.
COMECE // In light of the tragic anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attacks on the Israeli people, and in the face of the exceptionally grave humanitarian crisis in the region, alongside the dangerous Middle Eastern political dynamics involving an increasing number of actors, COMECE issues the following statement from its President, H.E. Mgr. Mariano Crociata, on Thursday, 3 October 2024.
“On behalf of the Bishops of COMECE, I wish to express our deepest concern about the vortex of violence that has engulfed the Holy Land, Lebanon and other parts of the Middle East in recent months. Each day brings the risk of further escalation, intensification and expansion of the conflict across the region, threatening the dignity, lives and livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people.
As we approach the tragic anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attacks on the Israeli people, we cannot fail to reiterate our great sorrow over the devastating waves of violence that the Holy Land and the Middle East region have witnessed in these past twelve months. This has not only resulted in an exceptionally grave humanitarian crisis and inconceivable human suffering in all communities, but also generated dangerous regional political dynamics involving an increasing number of actors.
This situation is source of grave concern to us also for its repercussions in Europe and in the world. The resurgence of anti-Semitism, radicalisation and xenophobia not only threatens social cohesion, but also leads to deplorable acts of violent extremism and terrorism.
Echoing the repeated peace appeals of Pope Francis, we urge all conflict parties, as well as all persons and groups inciting violence, to refrain from any actions that could lead to further escalation and polarisation.
We call for an immediate ceasefire on all fronts and for respect of international and humanitarian law. We appeal for the necessary protection of civilians, hospitals, schools and places of worship, as well as the release of all hostages and safe, unhindered humanitarian access.
The European Union, together with other regional and international actors, is called to pursue with determination the dialogue with all conflict parties in view of a just and lasting peace. This should include renewed diplomatic efforts towards a two-state solution, one Israeli and one Palestinian, as well as an internationally guaranteed special status for the City of Jerusalem, so that all Israelis and Palestinians may finally live in dignity, security and peace.”
We invite all people of good will to join the appeal of Pope Francis to observe a day of prayer and fasting for peace in the world on Monday, 7 October 2024. In view of this occasion, on which the Catholic Church prays in a particular way to Mary, Our Lady of the Rosary, we wish to share the following prayer for peace proposed by H.Em. Card. Pierbattista Pizzaballa OFM, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem:
Prayer for peace
Lord our God, Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, and Father of all mankind, Who in the cross of Your Son and through the gift of His own life, at great cost You wished to destroy the wall of enmity and hostility that separates peoples and makes us enemies: Send into our hearts the gift of the Holy Spirit, that He may purify us from every feeling of violence, hatred and revenge, enlighten us to understand the irrepressible dignity of every human person, and inflame us to the point of consumption for a peaceful and reconciled world in truth and justice, in love and freedom. Almighty and eternal God, in Your hands are the hopes of men and the rights of every people: Assist with Your wisdom those who govern us, so that, with Your help, they will become sensitive to the sufferings of the poor and of those who suffer the consequences of violence and war; may they promote the common good and lasting peace in our region and throughout the earth. Virgin Mary, Mother of Hope, obtain the gift of peace for the Holy Land that gave birth to you and for the whole world. Amen.
In an act that shows a lack of respect for human rights the Turkish government led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stooped to a new level by arresting 15 adolescent girls aged between 13 and 17 years old. This action has led to condemnation from advocates of human rights and global onlookers who view this as part of a wider suppression of civil freedoms, in Turkey.
The young women were said to have been held in custody in order to compel them to give evidence against their siblings and parents who have been accused of having ties to Hizmet, a social movement that Erdoğan’s administration has branded as a terrorist group. This behavior has drawn criticism and is viewed as a targeted campaign, against opponents and individuals seen as dissenters of the authorities.
Critics claim that the Erdogan government is undermining the rights of its people by using intimidation tactics to intimidate families connected to Hizmet movement supporters. Enes Kanter – a former NBA player and prominent advocate for human rights – recently brought attention to this troubling pattern and shared how his father’s arrest in a bid to stifle his criticism personally affected him. This shows the extreme measures taken by the regime to quash dissent.
On May 7th there was an incident where the police detained some girls in Istanbul based on orders from the prosecutor to gather information which turned out to be false pretense and unjust treatment towards minors as they were treated as criminals without access, to legal representation and faced psychological coercion which goes against international and Turkish legal norms. United Nations guidelines stress the importance of treating child witnesses and victims with compassion, however, this aspect of treatment was blatantly ignored in this case.
The Ministry of Justice in Turkey has a history of charging minors with terrorism offenses based on recent data. Almost 20.000 children have faced such trials in recent years according to official records. Various human rights groups like Amnesty International have repeatedly highlighted concerns that Turkey misuses terrorism legislation to suppress civil organizations and dissenters; these actions have been flagged by the United Nations as possibly amounting to crimes, against humanity.
The continued harassment is more than a violation of personal liberties; it also weakens the foundation of families and communities by isolating innocent individuals from society’s mainstream fabric. The accusations against these women mostly arise from everyday endeavors like supporting their community and participating in educational initiatives that the authorities unjustly labelled as acts of terrorism.
The global community should press the government for answers to stop these serious human rights abuses from becoming commonplace. It is crucial to have an investigation overseeing these detentions. Those who champion rights warn that not holding such actions accountable will only empower the Erdogan administration to continue restricting its citizens liberties further.
The Hizmet movement draws inspiration from the teachings of Fethullah Gulen. Focuses on education and fostering dialogue among different faiths while also promoting humanitarian efforts. Imbued with an ethos yet the Turkish government has pointed fingers at it for allegedly masterminding the failed coup of 2016. An accusation that lacks concrete evidence and is widely debated. In response to this upheaval Erdogan’s administration initiated a crackdown operation targeted at those suspected of having affiliations with Hizmet. This crackdown included the closure of educational institutions the media outlets and other establishments along, with the detention of tens of thousands of individuals.
The global community has strongly voiced its disapproval of Turkeys track record on human rights issues recently reviews from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have highlighted cases of misconduct such as unjust detentions and the limitation of freedom of speech reports Additionally the European Union and the United States have both raised alarms, about Turkeys application of anti terrorism measures to silence opposition voices.
Turkeys legal system has faced scrutiny for its perceived lack of autonomy as numerous judges and prosecutors have been substituted with individuals aligned with the government’s agenda. This situation has resulted in a system that frequently prioritizes the ruling party’s agenda, over administering justice and upholding legal principles. The incarceration of minors and the extraction of forced testimonies represent breaches of both Turkish and global legal norms.
The global community needs to listen to Enes Kanter plea for unity and taking steps against these practices. It is through united international efforts that we can address this serious issue and safeguard the rights of people in Turkey especially the young individuals impacted by this political turmoil. It is crucial for the world to keep a watch on the developments and ensure that the Turkish government remains answerable for its deeds.
As published by the well-known digital newspaper ‘Panoráma Económico Panama’, the most read digital news of Panama, the Parlatino will host this week the 4th edition of the prestigious ‘Faith and Freedom Summit’ (see web). After noting the increasing violations of freedom of belief in many parts of the world, more than 40 speakers from Panama, Germany, Argentina, Belgium, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Spain, United States, France, Holland, Mexico, United Kingdom and others will address during 2 intense days the problems and good practices in the protection of the right to freedom of belief in the world.
Panama City, 22 September – The Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (Parlatino) in Panama City has been chosen as the venue for the International Summit ‘Faith and Freedom’ on 24-25 September 2024. This event, under the appropriate slogan ‘Practising what we preach’, will bring together over two days more than 40 leading academics, human rights defenders, religious leaders and politicians from various regions of the world.
The event will address the promotion and defence of freedom of conscience. Ambassadors from various countries around the world have confirmed their participation, as well as the Nunciature and public and legislative officials.
The summit has broad global support from international organisations, academia, civil society and religious bodies, and will feature a special message from Dr. Nazila Ghanea, the current UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion and Belief, who will emphasise the global importance of protecting this fundamental human right.
The opening ceremony will be addressed by Elías Castillo, Executive Secretary of Parlatino; His Excellency Juan Francisco Borrell Cal, Vice Minister of Government of the Republic of Panama; H.E. Mr. Rubén Farje, Representative in Panama of the Organization of American States; Ms. Maricarmen Plata Secretary of Access to Rights and Equity Organization of American States; as well as Mr. Ivan Arjona, a founding member of the NGO Coalition Faith and Freedom Summit; and will have as Master of Ceremonies Ms. Giselle Lima, Coordinator of the International Religious Freedom Roundtable in Panama.
Initiated as a European campaign by a coalition of secular and faith-based non-governmental organisations from the European Union, the Faith and Freedom Summit has gained international momentum with organisations from all corners of the world. Since its inception in 2018, it has succeeded in bringing together stakeholders from various parts of the world with a common goal: to join forces and resources to end discrimination and defend freedom of religion and belief, so that everyone can believe, disbelieve or change their beliefs everywhere in the world and at all times.
Throughout its three previous editions, held at the European Parliament, the summit has served as a platform to foster dialogue between politicians, academics, religious and civil society, to promote non-discrimination policies and to strengthen legislative mechanisms for the protection of human rights at regional and international level.
The event’s programme includes panel discussions focusing on:
– Mechanisms to promote and protect freedom of belief within nations and regions. – The role of academia in the defence of religious freedom. – Religions and interfaith work to protect the freedom of others. – The importance of civil society participation in promoting freedom of belief. – Responsibility of the media in promoting and respecting freedom of belief. – Achieving freedom of belief for all through diplomacy.
An International Call to Action
The summit invites political leaders, civil society organisations and citizens around the world to unite in defence of freedom of conscience and religion. They are urged to sign a pledge rejecting intolerance, discrimination, harassment and violence, in order to build a more equitable society that respects diversity of belief.
The European Commission is getting ready to review citizens’ proposals and one controversial idea on the table is the ‘PsychedeliCare’ initiative that supports the exploration and implementation of psychedelic treatments for mental wellbeing issues. Advocates of this initiative highlight the advantages of using psychedelics in addressing mental health concerns; however it’s crucial to carefully assess the consequences of making these substances mainstream for therapeutic use, it already happened with way too many “pharma products” and end up being dangerous street drugs, as this is what they actually were from the beginning.
The Illusory Promise of Psychedelics
Supporters of this “therapies” frequently promote these substances as amazing remedies for profound mental health challenges like depression and anxiety disorders such as PTSD are regularly highlighted by them in support of their claims. However, these early research findings are willfully misinterpreted and exaggerated. The “positive outcomes” observed in limited research studies do not automatically translate to safety and effectiveness across wider and more varied demographic groups, often the contrary. Throughout history the fascination with a quick fix for mental health issues has often resulted in disappointment and harm, if not death.
A Lack of Comprehensive Understanding
The insufficient scientific knowledge about psychedelics raises concerns within the community as the intricate workings of the human brain remain a mystery when influenced by these substances. There are risks such as psychological distress and worsening of preexisting mental health conditions that make it unthinkable to integrate psychedelics into mainstream therapy practices at all. It is crucial to acknowledge the variations in individual experiences and biological compositions to prevent unintended harm rather than aiding in treatment efforts.
Regulatory and Ethical Concerns
The push for government endorsement of psychedelic therapies raises numerous ethical questions. Should substances with known psychoactive properties be part of mainstream health care? The regulatory environment surrounding these compounds is fraught with challenges, including ensuring quality control, standardizing dosages, and preventing misuse. With the legalization movements in various regions, the potential for recreational abuse expands, risking public health and safety.
Historical Context and Social Implications
Looking back, the late 1960s and early 1970s were marked by a psychedelic counterculture that resulted in societal turmoil and increased drug abuse. The legacy of this era still looms large; many young individuals romanticize psychedelic use without regarding the severe consequences that accompanied its earlier popularity, including addiction, mental health crises, and a societal disregard for safety protocols.
A Dangerous Precedent
By calling for a more prominent role for psychedelics in treatment protocols, the advocates of the ‘PsychedeliCare’ initiative may unintentionally set a dangerous precedent. Replacing established, evidence-based treatments with unproven psychedelic therapies could detract from the very real progress made in mental health care. It could shift focus away from holistic approaches that consider lifestyle, therapeutic counseling, and medication tailored to individual needs.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding the ‘PsychedeliCare’ initiative should prompt a vigilant and cautious examination of the implications of endorsing psychedelics as treatment options. While there is a critical need for innovative approaches in mental health care, rushing to embrace unproven therapies poses significant risks. It is paramount that we prioritize rigorous scientific scrutiny, ethical considerations, and the well-being of individuals over the allure of quick solutions. The only clear path forward is one grounded in proven therapies, comprehensive research, and unwavering commitment to public health.
In a moving speech delivered on 28 August at UN headquarters in Geneva, Dr Amalia Gamio, Vice-Chair of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, highlighted a worrying reality: the lack of implementation of deinstitutionalisation guidelines by member states.
Despite significant efforts by people with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities, their organisations, and various working groups, discrimination and human rights violations in institutions, specially psychiatric institutions, persist in the 21st century.
despite the adoption of these guidelines two years ago, virtually no state has taken concrete steps to implement them
Dr Amalia Gamio, Vice Chairperson of the UN Committee on the Rights of People with Disabilities
Dr Amalia Gamio stressed that, despite the adoption of these guidelines two years ago, virtually no state has taken concrete steps to implement them. In the reviews of state parties, it has been observed that measures contrary to articles 12, 14, 17 and 19 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities are wrongly justified as protection for persons with disabilities.
This approach ignores the guidelines of article 14 and general comment number 5 for article 19, which promote non-discrimination, respect for dignity, equality and deinstitutionalisation.
to persist in institutionalisation is to perpetuate the medical model that ignores gender, age and, above all, dignity.
Dr. Amalia Gamio, Vice Chairperson of the UN Committee on the Rights of People with Disabilities
Institutionalisation perpetuates an outdated medical model that ignores personal dignity and autonomy, increasing the potential for violence and limiting legal options for restorative action. And in fact as proven numerous times and again, the right to live independently and be included in the community implies living outside of residential institutions, a principle that continues to be ignored.
Dr Gamio emphasised that all international human rights treaties uphold the right to liberty and non-discrimination. Failure to implement the guidelines not only violates these rights, but also impedes the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, she stated, affecting poverty eradication, gender equality and inclusive economic growth.
The call is clear: there is no more time to lose. Society cannot continue to allow the rights of persons with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities to be violated. “Every year that passes without implementing these guidelines is another year of injustice and discrimination where people keeps being forced or even tricked into psychiatric facilities with a hope of helps that too often turns into betrayal” said one of the attendees at the UN. The international community must act urgently to ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are fully realised.
Vienna, August 22, 2024 – Religious Hate Crimes – On the occasion of the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, there is a significant focus on the rising number of hate crimes in the OSCE region. This issue was emphasized in a statement by the Personal Representatives of the OSCE Chair in Office, stressing the immediate action required to address growing religious intolerance and discrimination.
In their pointed message, the representatives expressed “deep concern at the alarming level of hate crime and acts of violence based on religion or belief across the OSCE region.” This assertion is not without basis. The statement highlighted a disturbing increase in intolerance towards Muslims, noting that “the high and increasing number of reported incidents of intolerance, violence, and discrimination against Muslims” is a testament to the deep-seated roots of anti-Muslim hatred exacerbated by xenophobia in several countries.
Since the series of Hamas terror attacks in October 2023, there has been an increase in anti-Semitic sentiments. The repercussions of these incidents, combined with the persisting tensions in the Middle East have instilled a sense of fear, among communities residing in various OSCE nations. The representatives noted that these conditions have forced individuals to “hide their Jewish identity in public,” a stark indicator of the present threats to personal freedom and security.
It’s evident that religious hate crimes aren’t limited to any group. “Acts of intolerance against Christians and members of other religions or beliefs continue unabated,” the statement claims, emphasizing the connection between these actions and extreme nationalism, racism and prejudice. These intersections present dangers to various social groups, such, as women, immigrants, Roma and Sinti communities.
A significant contributor to this worrying religious hate crimes trend is the role of social media. The representatives warned that social media platforms are instrumental in “promoting and amplifying these acts and expressions of intolerance and xenophobia,” often inciting violence through the dissemination of false information. They emphasized that while freedom of expression is foundational to democracy, it should not serve as a shield for unchecked hatred that targets individuals’ physical and emotional well-being.
The consequences of unchecked violence based on religion or belief extend beyond immediate physical threats. These acts “risk the erosion of our basic democratic values and principles,” posing a long-term threat to social cohesion, peaceful coexistence, and societal security.
In their closing remarks, the OSCE representatives made a resounding call to action. They encouraged participating States to fortify efforts in safeguarding freedom of religion and belief, urging the implementation of “comprehensive measures enabling the effective reporting, recording, and prosecution of hate crime.” Moreover, they emphasized the necessity of legislative and enforcement measures alongside appropriate victim support, when suffering religious hate crimes.
The statement underscored that “freedom of religion or belief is specifically acknowledged as an integral aspect of the OSCE’s comprehensive concept of security,” reinforcing its vital role in countering discrimination and prejudice. The representatives expressed readiness to assist participating States with the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in fostering respect for freedom of thought, conscience, religion, or belief.
The joint call was echoed by Rabbi Andrew Baker, Ambassador Evren Dağdelen Akgün, and Dr. Regina Polak, each representing a focus on combating various facets of intolerance and discrimination. Their unified stance serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing efforts required to ensure a secure, inclusive future for all religions and beliefs within the OSCE region.
