The EU is a community of values, and freedom of religion or belief is one of the fundamental human rights closely connected to human dignity. In the upcoming elections, the issue of religious freedom and how it is tackled by the European politicians is crucial. Amid the global rise in populism and authoritarian rule, the churches are greatly concerned about freely exercising their religion.
The status of religious communities is often an indicator of the way the rule of law and democracy develop in a country. The upcoming elections will be decisive in setting the trends.
Our publication Populism from a Human Rights Perspective draws attention to the many ways in which religious communities are already part of a wider alliance to combat the populist threat. We stand firm in fostering the European dream of freedom and equality, and dignity for all.
The editors of the book emphasise, “Our faith calls us to serve all people, regardless of whether they share it or not. Our churches are diaconical, not only in social work but also in their public mission. To speak out for human rights and freedom of religion or belief is part of that public mission.”
