Defining religion or belief, including the right to non-religious beliefs

Religious and non-religious beliefs bring hope and consolation to billions of people across the globe, and hold great potential for peace and reconciliation.  They have also, however, been the source of great tension and conflict.  This complexity, and the difficulty of defining “religion” and “belief” inclusively, is illustrated by the continuing struggle to protect freedom of religion or belief in the context of international human rights.

The Universal Declaration of Human rights

The Universal Declaration of HUman rightsThe Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a document that acts like a global road map for freedom and equality – protecting the rights of every individual, everywhere. It was the first time countries agreed on the freedoms and rights that deserve universal protection in order for every individual to live their lives freely, equ­­ally and in dignity.