In a move drawing strong international condemnation, Qatari authorities have once again detained Remy Rowhani—a prominent Qatari citizen and senior Baha’i dignitary—on what rights groups call “baseless and politically inspired charges.” The Baha’i International Community (BIC) has condemned the arrest, warning that the case mirrors tactics used by Iran to suppress Baha’is and signals a dangerous trend … Continue reading Qatar Arrests Remy Rowhani, Prominent Baha’i Figure Again, Sparking Alarm Over Religious Persecution
From Spain to Sweden: European countries diverge on religious symbols in public office
As Berlin reconsiders its controversial secularism policy, Europe continues to debate the limits of religious expression in public life. In the heart of Germany’s capital, a heated political debate has reignited over the boundaries of religious freedom in the public sphere. The Bundestag's Green Party group has submitted a motion to abolish Berlin's Neutrality Act … Continue reading From Spain to Sweden: European countries diverge on religious symbols in public office
Guns, Gangs, and Violence: The Role of Faith Communities
On April 23rd, 2025, the Canadian Multifaith Federation, in partnership with the Anti-Racism Initiative of the G20 Interfaith Forum Foundation, hosted a webinar on “Guns, Gangs and Violence.” The webinar featured Devon Clunis, former Chief of Police in Winnipeg (2012-2016), the first Black person to achieve the status of chief of police in a major … Continue reading Guns, Gangs, and Violence: The Role of Faith Communities
RESILIENCE Event: Religion and the EU: a Perfect Match?
On May 7, 2025, Brussels will host a pivotal event exploring the intersection of religion, politics, and society in Europe. Titled “Religion and the EU: a Perfect Match?” , this roundtable aims to address the pressing challenge of religious illiteracy and its societal impacts, while showcasing how academic research can inform policy and foster inclusive dialogue. Organized … Continue reading RESILIENCE Event: Religion and the EU: a Perfect Match?
The story of one of Buddhism’s most revered figures, long missing, explained
The young boy who was abducted as a 6-year-old turned 36 on Friday. What he does, where he lives or even if he’s still alive isn’t known, thanks to the reticence of the Chinese government, which kidnapped him along with his family and his teacher 30 years ago. Beijing leaders, ever wary of potential rivals … Continue reading The story of one of Buddhism’s most revered figures, long missing, explained
Pope Francis and China: A Difficult Legacy
Pope Francis’ death leads many to reflect on his pontificate from the point of view of the relationships with China. They cannot be separated from a broader view of Francis’ policies and teachings. I believe his most admirable legacy is his last encyclical, “Dilexit nos.” It includes a part describing the elimination of God and … Continue reading Pope Francis and China: A Difficult Legacy
China imposes new bans on missionary work, claims it’s for ‘national security’
China has banned foreign missionaries from preaching and establishing religious organizations, justifying the move as necessary for national security. The latest restrictions, announced by the Chinese Communist Party, will take effect on May 1, intensifying the crackdown on Christianity in the country. The newly revised rules explicitly prohibit non-Chinese citizens living in China from... Read … Continue reading China imposes new bans on missionary work, claims it’s for ‘national security’
Pope Francis called for freedom of religion in his last public message before passing away at 88
The Catholic Church and the world at large are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who, as reported by Vatican News, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The news of his passing was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, at 9:45 AM from the Casa Santa Marta, the Pope’s residence in the Vatican. Pope Francis said … Continue reading Pope Francis called for freedom of religion in his last public message before passing away at 88
PAKISTAN: Former EU Special Envoy on FORB spoke on human dignity in Pakistan at the UN
On 26 March, CAP/ Liberté de conscience and Human Rights Without Frontiers organized a side-event about the situation of Human Rights in Pakistan. The keynote speaker was Mr Jan Figel, EU Commissioner for Education (2004-2009) and former EU Special Envoy of Freedom of Religion or Belief (2016-2019). Here are the main insights of his presentation. … Continue reading PAKISTAN: Former EU Special Envoy on FORB spoke on human dignity in Pakistan at the UN
French Hijab Ban in Sport Hinders Religious Freedom
France has complicated relations with religious clothing, believing that it infringes on secularism, its fundamental value. In 2004, the country banned the wearing of religious attire in schools. Since 2011, France has issued forbidding orders on wearing face coverings. Although the excuse was originally to avoid public safety concerns, the order still significantly interfered with individual rights, … Continue reading French Hijab Ban in Sport Hinders Religious Freedom