Our Videos

March 6, 12

NEWS / State religions risk alienating minorities, warns UN rights expert


6 March 2012 –
State-sanctioned religions risk alienating minorities and discriminating against members of other faiths, an independent United Nations human rights expert warned today.

Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva where he presented his latest report on freedom of religion or belief and recognition issues, Heiner Bielefeldt urged governments around the world to ensure that ‘official’ religions do not discriminate against communities of other faiths within their jurisdictions.

“It seems difficult, if not impossible, to conceive of an official ‘State religion’ that in practice does not have adverse effects on religious minorities, thus discriminating against their members,” said Mr. Bielefeldt, who also cautioned against the use of ‘official’ religion for purposes of national identity politics.

The new report explores the key issues affecting the right to religious freedom around the world – from the limits imposed on communities of faith by strict registration procedures to the potential risk that official State religions pose to minority groups.

In addition, it distinguishes between three separate meanings of the concept of State ‘recognition’ of religion so as to avoid any potential misunderstandings which could affect freedom of religion or belief or even undermine it as a universal human right.

“Respect for freedom of religion or belief as a human right does not depend on administrative registration procedures, as it has the status of a human right, prior to and independent of any acts of State approval,” added Mr. Bielefeldt, who has served as the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion and belief since August 2010.

He also called on States to offer “quick, transparent, fair, inclusive, and non-discriminatory” options for religious communities to achieve the status of legal personality, which is frequently necessary for a community to fully enjoy its freedom to worship.

http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=41468&Cr=religion&Cr1=

 




Testimonials

John Beacleay

Just wanted to say thanks again for all your help Anton. I mean it's really amazing to me that yo...
Read More »
Niranjan Sujay
I recently used LOGOS INTERNATIONAL for the translation of my bachelor’s certificate, and I couldn’t...
Read More »
Katia Nagata

As a foreigner, I needed a certified translation, so I called the DOE to give me a list of the ce...
Read More »
AnnaMaria Realbuto
Thank you for all your assistance and efficiency...
Read More »




FAQ

What type of payments are accepted for apostille processing?
Read More »
What is a reaffirmation agreement?
Read More »
What portraits are shown on our circulating coins?
Read More »
DO U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES PROVIDE NOTARIAL AND AUTHENTICATION SERVICES FOR NON-U.S. CITIZENS?
Read More »






News

August 27, 25
NYC apartment building residents angry at “aggressive” squatter with criminal record
Read More »
August 22, 25
UK man issued 2 death certificates to allegedly cover up hospital’s negligence – report
Read More »
August 18, 25
Same-sex marriage certificates under question after court case requests overturn of 2015 legalization of same-sex marriage nationwide
Read More »
August 14, 25
Michigan man sentenced to over 20 years in prison for murdering wife after receiving divorce court papers
Read More »