Press Release No: 18/24
09 December 2024
Brussels

Observing Human Rights Day on 10 December, the Conference of European Churches (CEC) leaders expressed gratitude for progress made in protecting human rights over recent decades—yet also deep concern over increasing instances of violations and neglect of fundamental human rights in the world today.

“Brutal offenses, systemic injustices, and the erosion of the rule of law and democracy not only threaten individuals but also undermine the foundation of societies built on justice, solidarity, and peace,” said CEC President H.E. Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain. “European churches, as part of their mission to serve and protect the vulnerable, cannot remain silent in the face of such challenges.”

Archbishop Nikitas noted that the Gospel calls us to advocate for the oppressed, give voice to the voiceless, and work tirelessly for justice. "In this spirit, CEC has recognized the remarkable strides humanity has made in embedding human rights in laws, institutions, and everyday lives,” he said. “These advancements reflect a shared ethical vision for protection of human dignity.”

This year, European churches and communities have been witnessing war in Ukraine, crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh, the 50th anniversary of the division of Cyprus, war between Israel and Hamas, crisis in the Middle East, and many other challenges.

“Today we observe with distress how human rights and human dignity of all people are coming under pressure,” said Archbishop Nikitas. “Violations of freedom of religion and belief, rising inequalities, discrimination, and violations of the rights of refugees, migrants, asylum seekers, displaced persons, and Roma remind us of the fragility of these achievements.”

CEC General Secretary Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach urged governments, European institutions, and all relevant stakeholders across Europe to recommit to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and fulfil obligations under international law.

“As religious communities, European churches have a unique role in supporting those whose rights are denied,” said Fischbach. “Through advocacy, education, and solidarity, European churches can foster a culture of respect, empathy, and peace.” He reaffirmed CEC’s dedication to upholding a universal perspective of human rights as a cornerstone of peaceful coexistence.

“As European churches, we commit to standing alongside those who suffer, advocating for justice, and amplifying the call for protection of human dignity of every human being to be upheld and protected,” he said, citing Matthew 25:30: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Fischbach concluded: “May this inspire us all to act with courage, compassion, and conviction in the defence of human rights for all.”

For further information or an interview, please contact:

Naveen Qayyum
Communication Officer
Conference of European Churches
Rue Joseph II, 174 B-1000 Brussels
Tel. +32 486 75 82 36
E-mail: naveen@cec-kek.be
Website: www.ceceurope.org
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