Why does the United States have a responsibility to publish an annual report on International Religious Freedom?
Religious freedom is a universally acknowledged right enshrined in numerous international covenants and declarations such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Helsinki Accords, and others. When we advance religious freedom, we are simply urging other nations to join with us in upholding a high but universal standard. Respect for religious freedom and tolerance of the practices and beliefs of people of all faiths lie at the heart of the American identity and constitute one of main principles on which this country was founded. Our country was founded largely by people fleeing religious persecution in Europe, and the United States has continued to attract people from all over the world for this very reason. The United States has managed to resolve religious conflicts without resorting to sectarian violence. Moreover, we support the right of all countries to speak out when human rights, including religious freedom, are
Related Questions
- Under what authority does the Department of State produce its annual report on International Religious Freedom and designate "countries of particular concern" (CPC)?
- What is the difference between the Department of States Office of International Religious Freedom and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom?
- What is the difference between USCIRF and the State Department’s Office of International Religious Freedom?
