UK archbishop calls for global action on religious hate

Archbishop Richard Moth added his voice to a campaign coordinated by Aid to the Church in Need, saying that, “In some countries women and girls are kidnapped, forced to renounce their faith and marry their abductors, children are denied the right to learn about their faith”.

“Many people, young and old alike, are the victims of religious hatred. They suffer abuse and discrimination in the streets, at school and at work.”

Urging Catholics to sign the Aid to the Church in Need Article 18 petition, he added, “I invite you today to join a vital call to take action in support of people around the world oppressed for their faith.

“The richly diverse communities we have here in the Catholic dioceses of England and Wales are made up of so many people with their own story of persecution and oppression; men, women and children who have sought a fresh start, recognising that violations of religious freedom are contrary to the values of a just society.

“We need to stand up for our brothers and sisters in Christ and stand in support of all those who suffer for their beliefs, recognising religious freedom as a universal human right.”

Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees everyone the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.

According to the latest “Religious Freedom in the World” report, produced by Aid to the Church in Need, 5.4 billion people live in countries where oppression and discrimination are perpetuated by governments or extremist groups.

“All too often Article 18 is ignored,” said Archbishop Moth. “Men and women are imprisoned, others are driven from their homes, or even killed, simply because of their peacefully held beliefs.”

FULL STORY

Archbishop of Westminster makes new call for global action against religious hatred (The Tablet)