On 2 August, we commemorate the last 4,300 Sinti and Roma in the German Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau, who were murdered by the SS on that night in 1944 despite their fierce resistance. In memory of all 500,000 Sinti and Roma murdered in Nazi-occupied Europe, the European Parliament declared this date the European Holocaust Memorial Day for Sinti and Roma in 2015.
Visit our website and the virtual commemoration of 2 August 2024
►https://www.roma-sinti-holocaust-memorial-day.eu/
►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romasintiholocaustmemorialday/
On 2 August, we commemorate the last 4,300 Sinti and Roma in the German Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau, who were murdered by the SS on that night in 1944 despite their fierce resistance. In memory of all 500,000 Sinti and Roma murdered in Nazi-occupied Europe, the European Parliament declared this date the European Holocaust Memorial Day for Sinti and Roma in 2015.
Visit our website and the virtual commemoration of 2 August 2024
►https://www.roma-sinti-holocaust-memorial-day.eu/
►Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/romasintiholocaustmemorialday/
Animal protection NGO, Cruelty Free Europe, urges Ursula von der Leyen’s incoming European Commission to accelerate plans to phase out animal testing after the release of statistics for 2021 and 2022 showed that progress in reducing the number of animals used in science in the European Union has stalled.
Cruelty Free Europe are, however, pleased to see a significant decrease in the use of animals in regulatory testing (tests which prove the safety and efficacy of consumer products), which is likely to be due to an increase in the adoption of approved non-animal testing methods. This has led to a 21% decrease in the use of animals in regulatory testing since 2020.
European Commission statistics[1] show that there were 9.34 million tests on animals in the EU and Norway in 2022. This is an 8% decrease from 2021 to 2022, but the number of tests has also risen by 7% since 2020.
At 2.13 million, France carried out the most tests using animals in the EU in 2022 – a rise of 29% since 2020. Germany conducted 1.73 million tests and Norway 1.41 million (95% of which involved fish). Spain conducted 1.12 million tests on animals, an increase of 53% on their 2020 total.
These top four countries accounted for 68% of the total number of tests involving animals in the EU in 2022.
There was a small decrease in tests which were reported to have caused ‘severe suffering’, from 2020 to 2022, but a significant increase of 19% in tests which caused moderate suffering (the second highest level of pain), to over 3.71 million. Overall, the number of tests causing moderate or severe suffering to the animals involved totalled 49%.
From 2020 to 2022, there were increases in the uses of:
Dogs – up 2% to 14,395
Monkeys – up 5% to 7,658
Horses, donkeys and cross-breeds– up 5% to 5,098
Rabbits – up 8% to 378,133
Goats – up 69% to 2,680
Pigs – up 18% to 89,687
Reptiles – up by 74% to 5,937
Cephalopods (e.g., squid and octopus) – up by 65% to 2,694
There were also decreases in the uses of:
Cats – down 15% to 3,383
Ferrets – down 27% to 941
Guinea pigs – down 23% to 86,192
Sheep – down 12% to 17,542
There was a decrease in some of the tests included on the RAT (Replace Animal Tests) List[2], created by Cruelty Free Europe founder, Cruelty Free International – a list of regulatory tests that have accepted and reliable non-animal replacements and could be ended immediately. For example, the number of skin and eye irritation, skin sensitisation and pyrogenicity tests fell in 2022 but still amounted to over 55,000. Shockingly, there was an 18% increase (to 49,309 procedures) in the use of the cruel and archaic ascites method of producing antibodies, a test which causes the most severe level of suffering.
The European Commission, in response to Cruelty Free Europe’s 2020 European Citizens’ Initiative, ‘Save Cruelty Free Cosmetics – Commit to a Europe Without Animal Testing’[4], promised last year to develop a roadmap to phase-out animal testing for chemical safety assessments [3]. Last month, in partnership with a group of animal protection NGOs, Cruelty Free Europe led a meeting with key stakeholders from across the European Union as a critical step towards creating a roadmap to end animal testing in Europe.
Cruelty Free Europe’s Head of Public Affairs, Dylan Underhill, said: “These new statistics show how important it is for the European Commission to continue and accelerate its work to end animal testing in Europe. As we enter a new cycle of politics in the European Union it is absolutely vital that we build on the work that has already been done, and double our efforts to speed up progress. We urge the Commission President to press upon her incoming Commissioners the importance of the mission to phase out animal testing, and will be calling on all of them to make this issue a shared priority.
“The 1.2 million people who signed our European Citizens’ Initiative illustrated the strength of feeling that there is on this issue, and we stand ready to help the European Commission take the bold steps forward that we need to reflect public opinion. Without this, we will be condemned to a never-ending cycle of stagnation and small reductions, when what we need is transformative change.”
Green Loan – In a move to support the wind energy sector, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Haizea Wind Group have officially agreed on a €35 million green loan aimed at advancing manufacturing technologies and digital processes in the renewable energy field. This partnership comes at a juncture as Europe aims to strengthen its presence in the sustainable energy market.
Green Loan
This funding will empower Haizea, a company renowned for manufacturing components for wind energy systems, to enhance its capabilities in producing vital structures like wind towers, monopile foundations and transition pieces for offshore wind projects. This collaboration not aligns with Haizea’s objectives but also plays a role in enhancing the European supply chain for renewable energy parts ensuring competitiveness, within the offshore wind sector.
Gilles Badot, the Director of Operations, for Spain and Portugal at EIB emphasized the significance of this initiative. He mentioned, “The loans we are finalizing with Haizea today showcase EIB’s dedication to innovation and advancing energy technologies. This move helps us progress in our energy transition journey. Enhances the competitiveness of businesses.” This commitment is in line with EIB’s objectives of enhancing energy security within the European Union, especially considering the REPowerEU strategy aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports.
Sustainability and environmental responsibility
Apart from supporting Haizea’s progress, the eco-friendly loan forms part of EIB’s financial effort to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility. In 2023 EIB Group allocated over €21 billion for bolstering energy security in Europe with €4.5 billion designated specifically for projects in Spain. These investments play a role in expediting the transition to energy sources and fortifying economic stability within the region.
Alvaro Quintana, Finance Director at Haizea Wind Group expressed their objective to assist clients in transitioning towards a economy. He highlighted EIB’s confidence in Haizea enabling them to innovate and supply components, for wind power as part of the green transition.
The European Parliament marks European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day and honours the Sinti and Roma murdered in Nazi-occupied Europe.
Today, the European Parliament joins the international community in marking European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day and remembering the 500,000 Sinti and Roma who faced atrocities in Nazi-occupied Europe.
On the night between the 2nd and 3rd of August 1944, the last 4,300 Sinti and Roma remaining in the Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camp were murdered, with most of them being women, children and elderly people. Today, the European Parliament does not only remember the crimes committed against humanity, but also the importance of speaking up.
On this solemn occasion, the European Parliament remembers the lessons learned from the first recognition of the Roma and Sinti Holocaust, and reaffirms that Romani people must enjoy the same rights and treatment as all European citizens.
The President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola said: “Today we pay tribute to Roma and Sinti people’s contribution to the rich fabric of our European socities. Europe must stand up for the values it holds to be true: the rule of law, democracy and equality. The moment we become complacent is the moment we allow history to repeat itself.”
80 years later, too many Romani women and men in Europe still live in the margins of society. “In our Europe, we cherish our differences, unique traditions, cultures and diversity. That means that Roma people must enjoy the same opportunities and chances as any other European citizen,” President Metsola said.
Since 2015, the European Parliament has been marking the European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day every 2nd August.
Today, the European Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act), the world’s first comprehensive regulation on artificial intelligence, enters into force. The AI Act is designed to ensure that AI developed and used in the EU is trustworthy, with safeguards to protect people’s fundamental rights. The regulation aims to establish a harmonised internal market for AI in the EU, encouraging the uptake of this technology and creating a supportive environment for innovation and investment.
The AI Act introduces a forward-looking definition of AI, based on a product safety and risk-based approach in the EU:
Minimal risk: Most AI systems, such as AI-enabled recommender systems and spam filters, fall into this category. These systems face no obligations under the AI Act due to their minimal risk to citizens’ rights and safety. Companies can voluntarily adopt additional codes of conduct.
Specific transparency risk: AI systems like chatbots must clearly disclose to users that they are interacting with a machine. Certain AI-generated content, including deep fakes, must be labelled as such, and users need to be informed when biometric categorisation or emotion recognition systems are being used. In addition, providers will have to design systems in a way that synthetic audio, video, text and images content is marked in a machine-readable format, and detectable as artificially generated or manipulated.
High risk: AI systems identified as high-risk will be required to comply with strict requirements, including risk-mitigation systems, high quality of data sets, logging of activity, detailed documentation, clear user information, human oversight, and a high level of robustness, accuracy, and cybersecurity. Regulatory sandboxes will facilitate responsible innovation and the development of compliant AI systems. Such high-risk AI systems include for example AI systems used for recruitment, or to assess whether somebody is entitled to get a loan, or to run autonomous robots.
Unacceptable risk: AI systems considered a clear threat to the fundamental rights of people will be banned. This includes AI systems or applications that manipulate human behaviour to circumvent users’ free will, such as toys using voice assistance encouraging dangerous behaviour of minors, systems that allow ‘social scoring’ by governments or companies, and certain applications of predictive policing. In addition, some uses of biometric systems will be prohibited, for example emotion recognition systems used at the workplace and some systems for categorising people or real time remote biometric identification for law enforcement purposes in publicly accessible spaces (with narrow exceptions).
To complement this system, the AI Act also introduces rules for so-called general-purpose AI models, which are highly capable AI models that are designed to perform a wide variety of tasks like generating human-like text. General-purpose AI models are increasingly used as components of AI applications. The AI Act will ensure transparency along the value chain and addresses possible systemic risks of the most capable models.
Application and enforcement of the AI rules
Member States have until 2 August 2025 to designate national competent authorities, who will oversee the application of the rules for AI systems and carry out market surveillance activities. The Commission’s AI Office will be the key implementation body for the AI Act at EU-level, as well as the enforcer for the rules for general-purpose AI models.
Three advisory bodies will support the implementation of the rules. The European Artificial Intelligence Board will ensure a uniform application of the AI Act across EU Member States and will act as the main body for cooperation between the Commission and the Member States. A scientific panel of independent experts will offer technical advice and input on enforcement. In particular, this panel can issue alerts to the AI Office about risks associated to general-purpose AI models. The AI Office can also receive guidance from an advisory forum, composed of a diverse set of stakeholders.
Companies not complying with the rules will be fined. Fines could go up to 7% of the global annual turnover for violations of banned AI applications, up to 3% for violations of other obligations and up to 1.5% for supplying incorrect information.
Next Steps
The majority of rules of the AI Act will start applying on 2 August 2026. However, prohibitions of AI systems deemed to present an unacceptable risk will already apply after six months, while the rules for so-called General-Purpose AI models will apply after 12 months.
To bridge the transitional period before full implementation, the Commission has launched the AI Pact. This initiative invites AI developers to voluntarily adopt key obligations of the AI Act ahead of the legal deadlines.
The Commission is also developing guidelines to define and detail how the AI Act should be implemented and facilitating co-regulatory instruments like standards and codes of practice. The Commission opened a call for expression of interest to participate in drawing-up the first general-purpose AI Code of Practice, as well as a multi-stakeholder consultation giving the opportunity to all stakeholders to have their say on the first Code of Practice under the AI Act.
Continued independent, evidence-based research produced by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) has been fundamental in shaping the EU’s AI policies and ensuring their effective implementation.
Latin America has always been known for its political landscape and intricate legal systems and few leaders represent the ideals of collaboration and legislative proficiency as well as Elias Ariel Castillo González. With more than thirty-five years dedicated to politics, Castillo is widely recognized for his commitment, honesty and strong leadership qualities. His present position, as the Executive Secretary of the Latin American Parliament (Parlatino) signifies a moment in a career shaped by a steadfast dedication to serving the public. The closest big event supported by Castillo, which will take place in September, aims to united civil society, politics, parliamentarians, academia and media, to join efforts in protecting and advancing freedom of religion or belief.
A Storied Career
Elias Castillo’s journey in politics began in Panama, where he quickly ascended the ranks due to his sharp intellect, strategic acumen, and deep connection with the people. His tenure in the National Assembly of Panama is particularly noteworthy, with him being elected as its president on three separate occasions. Such a record is a testament to his leadership skills and the trust he garnered from his peers.
The prestige of his career in Panama naturally extended to the broader Latin American arena. Castillo has been a dedicated member of the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (Parlatino) for several terms. He served as president of Parlatino three times—a rare achievement that highlights his influence and effectiveness in fostering legislative dialogue and cooperation across national borders.
Leadership in Parlatino
As the Executive Secretary of the Latin American Parliament, Castillo’s role is multifaceted. It involves not only steering the legislative agenda but also ensuring that the diverse interests of member states are represented and reconciled. Under his stewardship, Parlatino has undertaken significant initiatives aimed at enhancing regional integration, promoting democratic governance, and addressing pressing issues such as climate change, human rights, and economic disparity.
Castillo’s leadership is marked by an inclusive approach. He strives to bring together legislators from different political, social, and economic backgrounds, fostering a collaborative environment where comprehensive and sustainable policies can be crafted. His vision extends beyond immediate legislative concerns to encompass long-term regional stability and prosperity.
A Visionary for the Future
One of Castillo’s most commendable traits is his forward-looking vision. He understands that the challenges facing Latin America—be they economic, environmental, or social—require innovative and collaborative approaches. He has been a vocal advocate for leveraging technology in governance, improving transparency, and enhancing public participation in legislative processes.
Elias Castillo’s work also reflects a deep commitment to social justice. He has consistently championed the rights of marginalized communities, advocating for policies that promote equality and inclusivity. His efforts in this regard are not confined to rhetoric but are evident in the tangible legislative measures he supports and the initiatives Parlatino has undertaken under his guidance.
Elias Castillo stands out as a paragon of legislative excellence in Latin America. His extensive career, marked by significant accomplishments both in Panama and on the regional stage, highlights the vital role of dedicated and visionary leadership in shaping the future of the region. As Executive Secretary of the Latin American Parliament, Castillo continues to lead with integrity, fostering a spirit of cooperation and championing the causes of democracy and development.
In the ever-evolving political landscape of Latin America, Elias Castillo remains a steadfast figure, piecing together the diverse and intricate mosaic of regional governance with unyielding dedication and unparalleled expertise.
Religious liberty holds a role, in communities granting individuals the freedom to practice their faith without state intervention. This fundamental right influences the formulation of policies by authorities influencing aspects such as human rights regulations and immigration guidelines. Exploring the connection between freedom and policymaking sheds light, on the importance placed on this principle in Europe.
Exploring the impact of freedom, on the development of human rights regulations, in Europe.
Religious liberty has long been a tenet of human rights initiatives, in Europe. It empowers individuals to embrace their beliefs openly and without apprehension fostering a climate where faith can be practiced without hindrance. This fundamental freedom extends beyond worship to encompass the expression of ones convictions. European nations dedicate efforts to upholding this right enacting regulations and statutes to safeguard the ability of all individuals to adhere to their chosen faith. An appreciation for freedom underscores its role, in shaping policies related to human rights.
The Influence of Religious Freedom, on Human Rights Legislation, in Europe.
The influence of freedom, on human rights laws is deep and complex. By upholding diversity in beliefs and the freedom to practice religion Europe bolsters its dedication to safeguarding rights and combating discrimination. This connection between freedom and human rights legislation establishes a foundation for preserving individual liberties and fostering societal unity. Consequently legal frameworks in Europe are constantly developing to enhance the protection of expression the right to hold beliefs and equality, within various religious groups.
Ensuring Religious Freedom, in European Countries; Tactics, to Safeguard Rights
To safeguard freedom, in countries it is crucial to adopt various approaches. Governments need to establish measures for minority groups and uphold regulations that prevent discrimination on religious grounds. Encouraging dialogue and involvement, among faith communities can foster empathy and acceptance. It is also important to ensure that governmental policies adhere to human rights norms to preserve freedoms effectively. By tackling these core challenges European nations can cultivate a climate where diverse religious views are valued and upheld.
Best Practices for Protecting Religious Freedom in Europe
To uphold freedom, in Europe it is essential to have laws in place encourage conversations between different faiths and protect religious sites. Nations should enforce laws against discrimination. Educate people on the value of respecting all religions. By following these steps European countries can show their dedication to rights and unity among communities creating a welcoming atmosphere, for all belief systems.
Steps to Enact Laws Protecting Religious Freedom, in European Nations.
The process of legislating religious freedom in European countries involves multiple steps, including the creation of legal frameworks that ensure diverse worship practices are protected. To learn more about how these policies intersect with broader European immigration rules, explore the detailed information available on the Common European Asylum System. Crafting these laws often requires balancing various interests to protect human rights and maintain social cohesion while fostering an environment of tolerance and mutual respect.
Influence of religious freedom on European immigration and integration laws
Religious freedom plays a key role in shaping immigration and integration laws in Europe. These laws guide how people from different countries settle and live within European nations. Ensuring religious freedom helps immigrants feel welcomed and respected. It also allows them to maintain their cultural and religious practices. By understanding these impacts, we can see the importance of religious freedom in creating fair and inclusive societies.
How religious diversity in Europe impacts integration policies
Religious diversity in Europe prompts the creation of nuanced integration policies designed to foster social cohesion and mutual respect among various faith communities. Policies on multiculturalism, including those addressing the integration of Muslim immigrants and the accommodation of religious practices in public institutions, are increasingly important in this diverse landscape. By ensuring that integration strategies are inclusive and respectful of different belief systems, European nations aim to balance the need for social unity with the protection of religious freedom. This approach reinforces the values of tolerance and inclusivity crucial to Europe’s democratic identity.
Role of religious freedom in shaping European immigration laws
Religious freedom plays a crucial role in shaping European immigration laws, as it ensures that asylum policies are inclusive and non-discriminatory. By upholding the right to religious expression, European countries aim to protect refugees fleeing religious persecution, thus influencing humanitarian immigration rules. This commitment to religious freedom within immigration policies fosters diverse, multicultural societies and reflects Europe’s broader dedication to human rights and equality.
Challenges of balancing religious freedom and national integration
Balancing religious freedom and national integration poses significant challenges for European policymakers. Issues like religious accommodation in public institutions, cultural assimilation policies, and the tension between secularism and religious expression require careful consideration. Countries struggle to develop inclusive policies that respect diverse beliefs while fostering social cohesion and national identity. These complexities make the balancing act between safeguarding religious freedoms and ensuring effective national integration an ongoing and evolving task.
Successful examples of European immigration policies promoting religious tolerance
European immigration policies promoting religious tolerance have seen success in several countries. For example, Sweden’s inclusive approach ensures that immigrants can practice their faith freely. This model has reduced social tensions and promoted cultural integration. Such policies underline the importance of safeguarding religious rights in diverse societies. For further insights on how religious restrictions vary worldwide, visit the Pew Research Center’s detailed report. Implementing these policies also showcases Europe’s commitment to human rights and equality, strengthening the social fabric.
Common Queries Regarding How Religious Freedom Influences the Development of Human Rights Policies, in Europe
How does the concept of freedom impact the formulation of human rights policies, in Europe?
Religious freedom is an aspect of human rights policies, in Europe with many European nations incorporating it into their constitutions. By safeguarding principles like freedom of speech and assembly these countries foster communities where various religious viewpoints can peacefully exist alongside each other. This practice influences the development of fair treatment policies and safeguards, against discrimination.
Is there any legislation, in Europe that focuses on protecting the freedom of religion and belief?
Indeed there are laws, in Europe that directly deal with the freedom to practice ones religion. For instance Article 9 of the European Convention, on Human Rights ensures individuals rights to have their thoughts, beliefs and religious practices. Furthermore Article 10 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union protects freedom well. These legal structures guarantee people the ability to worship as they choose while also considering rights and societal concerns.
How do European authorities navigate the balance, between upholding freedoms and safeguarding other fundamental human rights?
European governments aim to strike a balance, between upholding freedom and safeguarding other human rights through the enactment of legislation that safeguards individual freedoms while also preserving public peace and security. For instance regulations prohibiting hate speech and discrimination are designed to shield individuals from harm without impeding practices. Courts frequently serve a function in deciphering these laws to maintain an equilibrium, between conflicting rights and liberties.
How do European immigration policies get affected by freedom?
The influence of freedom, on immigration rules in Europe is substantial as it influences the standards for granting asylum and refugee status. Several European nations view persecution as a reason for providing asylum. Additionally regulations are adjusted to support immigrants from beliefs allowing them to freely practice their faith, which is vital for their effective assimilation, into society.
How does the concept of freedom impact the assimilation of immigrants, in Europe?
The freedom to practice ones religion is important for immigrants to feel welcomed and respected allowing them to hold onto their religious heritage. Providing access, to places of worship and schools helps immigrants feel included and appreciated, which is vital for their integration into society fostering unity and cooperation, among communities.
Are there any laws, in countries that focus on regulating the religious customs of immigrants?
Indeed numerous European nations have regulations and guidelines, in place to cater to the customs of migrants. These regulations may encompass allowances for observing holidays adhering to restrictions in public establishments like schools and hospitals and upholding the freedom to dress in religious attire. The objective of these regulations is to honor and support the traditions of migrants facilitating their assimilation, into society while safeguarding their religious heritage.
Exploring the Impact of Religious Freedom, on the Development of European Governance.
The concept of freedom plays a role, in shaping the laws and regulations across Europe. It ensures that people can freely follow their faith without any intervention from the authorities impacting aspects such, as human rights laws and immigration policies. By promoting tolerance and embracing diversity religious freedom contributes to building communities that honor perspectives and traditions.
This overview emphasizes the influence of freedom, on European policy. Recognizing this significance allows us to grasp the principles that form the foundation of governance in Europe. If you wish to explore this topic or actively support freedom explore our detailed reports and tools designed to assist you in making informed choices and instigating impactful transformations.
Panama City, Panama – In a world where religious freedoms are increasingly under threat, the Faith and Freedom Summit IV is set to provide a crucial platform for dialogue and action. Scheduled for September 24-25, 2024, co-organized together with the Latin American Parliament in Panama City, this summit promises to be a pivotal event for scholars, human rights advocates, religious leaders, and politicians committed to defending freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) globally.
A Gathering of Global Thought-Leaders
The Faith and Freedom Summit IV aims to bring together high-level thought-leaders to highlight the importance of FoRB and to develop actionable policies to promote greater respect for religious diversity. This year’s theme, “Practicing What We Preach,” underscores the summit’s commitment to turning words into actions.
Distinguished Speakers and Interactive Sessions
The summit will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including, but not only:
Mr. Elias Castillo, Executive Secretary of the Latin American Parliament
Mr. Ruben Farje, Representative to Panama of the Organization of American States
Dr. Nazila Ghanea, Special Rapporteur on FoRB at the United Nations
Mrs. Maricarmen Plata, Secretary for Access to Rights and Equity at the Organization of American States
Dr. Thomas Schirrmacher, Co-President of Religions for Peace
Mrs. Preeta Bansal, Global Council Chairperson of the United Religions Initiative
Renowned individuals in the field along with experts will lead conversations and interactive sessions to evaluate aspects that require enhancements in safeguarding religious freedom on a global scale. Participants will be able to gain insights from professionals and exchange personal anecdotes promoting a cooperative atmosphere, with the goal of influencing forthcoming regulations.
Networking and Collaboration
One of the goals of the summit is to provide a platform, for sharing successful strategies and cultivating long term connections. Attendees will have plenty of chances to engage with individuals and groups strengthening their capacity to advance their respective endeavors and undertakings.
Event Details
Dates: September 24-25, 2024
Location: Latin American Parliament, Panama City, Panama
For those traveling from afar, the Radisson Panama Canal is the closest hotel to the Latin American Parliament facilities. Early booking is recommended to ensure convenient access to the event.
The Faith and Freedom Summit IV goes beyond being a conference; it serves as a rallying cry. Regardless of whether you’re an academic a champion of rights a spiritual guide or a public servant your involvement is crucial in the battle against religious bias. This gathering provides a chance to join forces with a worldwide initiative committed to turning freedom of religion and belief into a tangible possibility, for all individuals.
Together, let’s practice what we preach and make freedom of religion or belief a reality for everyone, leaving no one behind.
List of speakers in alphabetical order, and growing:
Jonathan Ammons, International Public Affairs Director for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Amy Andrus, Associate Director at the International Center for Law and Religion Studies, BYU
Ivan Arjona-Pelado, President of UN ECOSOC consultative status foundation MEJORA and president of the European Office of the Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights
Preeta Bansal, Global Council Chairperson of the United Religions Initiative
Cristian Badillo, General Director of Fundación Conciencia Nacional
Francisco Blanco, Rector of Santa María La Antigua Catholic University in Panama
Maritza Cedeño, President of the National Bar Association of Panama
Alfonso Celotto, Constitutional Lawyer at the University of Roma Tre
Manuel Corral, Private Secretary to Mexican Catholic Cardinal Carlos Aguiar for Institutional Relations
Carmen Dominguez, President of the Latin America Consortium of Religious Freedom
Willy Fautre, Founder and Director of Human Rights Without Frontiers
Jan Figel, Founder of the European Institute of Innovation & Technology
Thomas Schirrmacher, Co-President of Religions for Peace
Felipe Gomez, Coordinator of COMPAS Central America
Nazila Ghanea, Special Rapporteur on FoRB at the United Nations
Yosef Garmon, President of the Humanitarian Coalition of Israel
Gustavo Guillerme, President of the World Congress of Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue
Giselle Lima, Co-Chair of the Panama International Religious Freedom Roundtable
Pedro Mena, Head of Religious Affairs for the State of Mexico
Olivia McDuff, Public Affairs Officer at the Church of Scientology International
Gregory Mitchell, Founder and Chair of the IRF Secretariat
Dennis Petri, International Director of the International Institute for Religious Freedom
Maricarmen Plata, Secretary for Access to Rights and Equity at the Organization of American States
Fernando Roig, Director of the Joint Master Red Global Consortium (Erasmus Mundus International)
Eric Roux, Co-chair of the FoRB Roundtable Brussels-EU
Francisco Sanchez, Secretary of Worship for the Republic of Argentina
Scott Stearman, Vice Chair of the Parliament of World Religions
David Trimble, Interim President of the Religious Freedom Institute
Andrea De Vita, Director of the Religious Freedom, Beliefs, and Worship Chair at Universidad del Salvador
Brooke Zaugg, Vice President of the Faith & Media Initiative
The Office of the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) has received a report from the Department of Electoral Cooperation and Observation regarding the presidential electoral process in Venezuela in 2024. The report highlights the worst form of repression, where the people are prevented from finding solutions through elections.
The Venezuelan regime has been accused of applying its repressive scheme to distort the electoral result, making it available to manipulation. The Maduro regime has mocked important actors of the international community, going into an electoral process without guarantees or mechanisms to enforce those guarantees.
The report notes that the complete manual for fraudulent handling of the electoral result was applied in Venezuela on the night of the election, in many cases in a very rudimentary manner. There has been talk of an audit or a recount of the minutes of electoral material, but this has not had the slightest conditions of security and control.
The opposition campaign headquarters has presented the minutes by which it would have won the election, but Maduro, including the CNE, has not yet been able to present the minutes by which it would have won. The Secretary General of the OAS, Luis Almagro, has expressed regret over the lack of cumulative memory of actors in the international community, which systematically leads to repeating errors.
The burden of injustice on the people of Venezuela continues, with Venezuelans once again victims of repression. The Secretary General has stated that “no revolution” can leave people with fewer rights than they had, poorer in values and principles, more unequal in the instances of justice and representation, more discriminated against depending on where their thinking or political direction lies.
