NZ bishops endorse religious diversity statement

First published in 2007, the latest edition of the Statement on Religious Diversity was led by the Race Relations Commissioner and developed by Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission in consultation with a wide range of faith and interfaith communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. The previous edition was published in 2019.

The statement has eight headings: the state and religion; the right to freedom of religion and belief; the right to safety; the right to freedom of expression; recognition and accommodation; education; religious diversity; cooperation and understanding.

Under the first heading, it is affirmed that “the State has a duty to treat all faith communities and those who profess no faith equally before the law”.

Other affirmations include: “Everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand has the right to freedom of religion and belief and the right to freedom from discrimination on the grounds of religious or ethical belief”, and “The right to freedom of expression is vital for democracy and should be exercised with responsibility”.

The statement also affirmed that “Faith communities and their members have a right to safety and security. This includes being and feeling safe physically, socially, psychologically and spiritually as a person of faith.”

Race Relations Commissioner Melissa Derby said the statement is very timely given “recent race-based attacks either online or in person”.

“A number of communities have written to me with concern for their safety in quite real terms, whether that’s coming from online or from quite overt public displays,” Dr Derby said.

“I work with communities who feel the pressure and the pain of these attacks every day,” Dr Derby said.

“But diversity does not need to be a source of division for the rest of us.”

The shared values found across religious traditions – including wanting to be of service to others, and a desire to bring peace and hope – offered a foundation for unity, Dr Derby said.

Recognising the dignity and humanity in every person, of every faith or none, was central to building a more cohesive Aotearoa New Zealand, she said.

She noted that even though just over half of New Zealanders identified with no religion, faith remained integral to a large proportion of Kiwis.

As with previous editions, the statement opens with a foreword from the Prime Minister, who said New Zealand is a stronger, more welcoming country because of its diverse faith communities.

FULL STORY

‘Diversity does not need to be a source of division’ – Race Relations Commissioner calls for greater unity (Radio New Zealand)

Religious Diversity in Aotearoa New Zealand (Statement on Religious Diversity – Human Rights Commission)

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