Strangford MP Jim Shannon has backed an influential lobby on human rights.
He said: “Violations of freedom of religion or belief are global issues which not only affect individuals and communities but also have ramifications for international peace and security.
“This is why the International Panel of Parliamentarians on Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB) is so important.
A global problem requires a global response. No one single government can meet the challenge of curbing the increase in religious persecution around the world. It is only through the collaboration of parliamentarians that this group offers that we can effectively advocate for the greater respect and protection of religious freedom for all.
“The New York Resolution for Freedom of Religion or Belief gave us a platform to devise a way forward to enhance our cooperation internationally in order to combat persecution. I hope we can build on this momentum and advance the resolution.
“In particular, I would like to recall a couple of the pledges we committed to, and those are to pursue efforts that:
* Â Enhance global cooperation by working across geographical, political and religious lines to mobilise effective responses through regular communications, sharing of information and endeavouring to meet annually.
* Build stronger linkages between members of parliament and civil society organisations, religious leaders, and members of academia so as to find more impactful ways to advance freedom of religion or belief globally.
“It is in the spirit of these commitments that we as a group will continue to work together to combat persecution and strengthen freedom of religion or belief across the world.”
