In a statement delivered at the UN Human Rights Council 58, UK MP David Smith affirmed the UK’s unwavering commitment to the protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB). Emphasising his role as Special Envoy, he highlighted alarming findings from a recent report by the Special Rapporteur, which revealed egregious violations of rights in detention centres, notably in Myanmar and Sudan. There, detainees faced psychological torture, coercion, and were forced to abandon their religious identities in dire conditions.
The UK strongly condemns all forms of torture, asserting that preventing such atrocities and holding violators accountable is essential for maintaining security and the rule of law. Smith called for a collective global effort to confront and eliminate torture while ensuring the fundamental right to FoRB is universally upheld. Addressing the Special Rapporteur, he sought guidance on practical measures that states could implement to investigate torture and protect religious freedoms in detention environments.
At the UN Human Rights Council 58, David Smith expressed the UK’s firm dedication to protecting Freedom of Religion or Belief. He highlighted alarming violations detailed in the Special Rapporteur’s report, focusing on cases of torture in Myanmar and Sudan. The UK condemned torture and called for collective action to ensure freedom of religion is respected, seeking the Rapporteur’s advice on steps for states to investigate torture cases.
The UK’s statement at the UN Human Rights Council underscores an urgent call to end torture and protect the right to Freedom of Religion or Belief. By addressing the systemic issues highlighted in the Special Rapporteur’s report, and fostering international cooperation, greater safeguarding of these fundamental human rights can be achieved, reinforcing justice and dignity for all individuals.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
