Page 97 - Dignity and justice for all of us our voices are heard in Thailand

Article 18

The number and seriousness of allegations Protection needs to be complemented by
that Dr. Jahangir receives in her mandate prevention efforts. The prevention of acts
lead to the conclusion that freedom of of intolerance and discrimination requires
religion or belief is far from being a reality pro-active strategies and creative
for many individuals all over the world. approaches by all actors. Governments
Victims of religious intolerance belong to should identify and adequately address
all religions and beliefs. At the same time, possible conflicts between communities
the perpetrators, too, are not confined to of religion or belief ahead of time.
one or a few identified religious or belief Moreover, they need to review policies
communities. Religious intolerance has and administrative approaches in all issues
increased worldwide – especially since involving freedom of religion or belief.
2001 – and the actors for peace and However, specific legislation should be
tolerance have been marginalized. introduced in a cautious manner since any
compulsory over-regulation may be
Freedom of religion or belief is a complex, counterproductive. The role of civil society
delicate and multi-faceted human right. is also essential in promoting religious
Dr. Jahangir’s 22 years of mandate practice tolerance and in preventing
reveal that the effective protection and misunderstandings, conflicts and
promotion of the right to freedom of violations through education and
religion or belief poses serious challenges inter-religious dialogue for instance.
to all states. Wise and balanced decision-
making at all governmental levels as well Dr. Jahangir expresses her sincere hope
as non-discriminatory legislation are that on this momentous 60th anniversary
crucial for addressing the delicate issues of the Universal Declaration of Human
involved. Furthermore, an independent Rights, the heartfelt and important efforts
and non-arbitrary judiciary is a prerequisite undertaken by many actors in all regions
for safeguarding freedom of religion or of the world for the protection and
belief. States must provide adequate promotion of the right to freedom of
protection to victims and effective religion or belief will bear fruit.
remedies in cases where the right to
freedom of religion or belief has been
violated.

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