Human Rights: The Pillar of Peace
At a significant international gathering near the White House, Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles emphasized the vital link between human rights and peacemaking. “Along with dialogue, protecting human rights is crucial to preserving peace,” he asserted, stating that freedoms of opinion, expression, thought, conscience, and religion are foundational to society’s well-being.
Elder Soares underscored the communal responsibility to defend these rights, declaring, “These rights speak for themselves but cannot defend themselves. That is our task.” He believes that while rights are endowed by God, protecting them is a human responsibility, urging attendees to consider their role in fostering peace.
Acting on the Yearning for Peace
Elder Soares called for proactive measures in creating peaceful communities, stating, “It is imperative to remember that yearning does not mean waiting. We can choose… to be peacemakers now.” During discussions at the Global Faith Forum and with religious leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean, he reiterated that peace necessitates active dialogue and engagement.
Referencing Swiss theologian Hans Küng, he pointed out the necessity of interreligious dialogue, asserting, “There will be no peace among the nations without peace among the religions.” Elder Soares commended the efforts of those at the IRF Summit and expressed appreciation for their commitment to multi-faith initiatives, describing their work as noble and inspiring.
Challenges Faced in Religious Freedom
Highlighting the increasing threats to religious freedom, Elder Soares referenced a Pew Research Center report that indicates rising restrictions affecting all countries surveyed. He explained that a lack of respect for fundamental human rights, particularly religious freedom, poses a significant barrier to stability and peace.
He quoted researchers Brian Grim and Roger Finke, “The denial of religious freedoms is inevitably intertwined with the denial of other freedoms,” illustrating the interconnectedness of rights. For Elder Soares, promoting religious freedom is not merely ethical but vital for societal peace and stability.
Emphasizing the Positive Impact of Religion
Contrary to claims that religious freedom breeds conflict, Elder Soares presented evidence that religion fosters community and civic engagement. He noted that individuals engaged in faith-based activities tend to be happier and promote familial and community responsibility, creating a cohesive social fabric essential for peaceful coexistence.
Elder Soares noted that in Brazil, despite its diverse religions, no hostility has been reported regarding conversions or missionary activities, illustrating the potential for harmony in a pluralistic society.
Promoting Peace through Positive Actions
He shared insights from President Russell M. Nelson, who advocates for peacemaking through respectful dialogue. According to Elder Soares, President Nelson teaches that managing differences with dignity is crucial, stating, “Contention reinforces the false notion that confrontation is the way to resolve differences.”
Elder Soares also quoted Thomas Merton, who said, “Peace demands greater heroism than war,” emphasizing that while cultivating peace may require effort, it is a goal worth pursuing vigorously.
The IRF Summit, marking a gathering of diverse faith leaders committed to fostering peace, opened with Elder Soares enriching the dialogue on human rights and religious freedoms.
Elder Ulisses Soares highlighted the essential role of human rights in peacemaking at the IRF Summit. He stressed the importance of action in fostering peace and protecting religious freedoms, citing a Pew Research report on increasing restrictions. He argued that promoting religious freedom is essential for societal stability, and emphasized cooperative efforts among faith leaders to create a unified society.
Elder Soares’ address underlined that protecting human rights is fundamental to building peaceful societies. He called for active engagement and dialogue, emphasizing that the responsibility to protect these rights lies with individuals and communities alike. The negative trends in religious freedom must be confronted with proactive measures, fostering unity and understanding across diverse faiths to cultivate a more harmonious world.
Original Source: www.deseret.com
