When Christians are being persecuted for their beliefs in other parts of the world we must speak out and stand with those who bravely practice their faith. The UK is committed to upholding the right to freedom of religion or belief around the world. Societies which protect this right are more tolerant and ultimately more likely to be prosperous and stable.
The UK continues to champion freedom of religion through the multilateral system, which is a vital avenue for the pursuit of progress on this issue. This includes supporting a resolution on freedom of religion in both the Human Rights Council and the UN General Assembly in 2015, and the appointment of the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion and Belief, who is tasked with monitoring these issues worldwide.
The UK is collaborating with human rights and faith-based organisations across the world through project work; particularly those which bridge sectarian divides and promote dialogue an understanding between religions.
Of course, I agree there is more work that needs to be done. The Government is building on its work in the previous Parliament to correct the views of those who seek to create conflict for their own divisive means, such as claiming Christianity in the Middle East is an import of "the West".
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