religiousfreedom

Rights and Responsibilities

Religious freeedom in former Soviet Union

One consequence of globalisation, whether we like it or not, is a pluralistic society where many different beliefs co-exist. How should society respond to this challenge? Should it ban beliefs that are not considered acceptable by some? Is so, who will define what is an acceptable belief and what is not? Should the issue be looked at from a global or a national perspective? What is the role of dialogue between different cultures, minorities and belief systems?

Merudevi Dasi, Religious Freedom and New Religious Movements in Europe, (published in ISKCON Communications Journal, Vol. 8 No.2-March 2001)

If you read media stories, you have probably heard of ‘cults’ that encourage their followers to commit suicide, situations where certain ‘religious’groups have abused young people, and/or about groups that take advantage of others for financial profit.

In view of these stories, should there be limits to religious freedom?

The international community says that there should be when it is “necessary to protect public safety, order, health or morals or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others.” (See UN page.)

Believing whatever you like is one thing, engaging in practices that are harmful to others is a different matter altogether. It is up to different religious communities to ensure that their own practices uphold the fundamental dignity and human rights of their members and others.

In thinking about rights and their related responsibilities: A) What limits would you place on religious freedom and why? B) What types of behaviour would you like to see religious or belief communities regulate for themselves on a voluntary basis? (You may wish to reflect on a religious or belief community with which you are familiar).

Contents / Introduction / Persecution Types / Immunity / Global Case Studies / United Nations / Right&Responsibilities / Hard Questions / Interfaith Initiatives / Summary / Inspiration / Resources

 

 

---

 

© International interfaith organisations network 2003