Freedom of religion, also known as freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), is a fundamental human right that encompasses the liberty of individuals or communities to hold, practice, change, or not have any religion or belief. It’s a broad principle that allows people to follow their conscience in matters of faith without fear of persecution, coercion, or discrimination from the government or other societal groups.
Key components of freedom of religion include:
* Freedom to Believe (or not to believe): This includes the right to adopt any religion or belief, to hold non-religious beliefs (like atheism, agnosticism, humanism), and to change one’s religion or belief at any time, or to leave a religion entirely.
* Freedom to Manifest: This refers to the ability to express and practice one’s religion or belief, either individually or in community with others, in public or private. This can include:
* Worship: Engaging in religious services, ceremonies, and rituals.
* Observance: Following religious dietary laws, dress codes, or other practices.
* Practice: Participating in religious life, such as establishing and maintaining places of worship, or observing days of rest and holy days.
* Teaching and Dissemination: Sharing one’s faith, preaching, or educating others about their beliefs.
* Freedom from Coercion and Discrimination: No one should be forced to adopt, change, or abandon a religion or belief. Additionally, individuals should not experience discrimination based on their religion or lack thereof, in areas like employment, housing, or access to public services.
* Protection of Religious Communities: This includes the right for religious groups to manage their own affairs, establish organizations, and maintain the integrity and character of their institutions according to their convictions.
Freedom of religion is enshrined in major international human rights documents, most notably:
* Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR): “Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.”
* Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR): This legally binding treaty reiterates and elaborates on the rights outlined in the UDHR, explicitly prohibiting coercion that would impair a person’s freedom to have or adopt a religion or belief of their choice.
While freedom of religion is a broad right, it is not absolute. Limitations may be imposed under specific conditions, such as to protect public safety, order, health, morals, or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others. However, these limitations must be prescribed by law and be necessary in a democratic society.