Mr. Speaker, around the world we are seeing increasing violations of religious freedom and belief. This is not acceptable. Religious freedom is a basic human right that should exist everywhere in the world. It is a freedom that speaks to human dignity, to rights of free speech, and the right to association.
Just over a week ago, I participated in an international meeting of parliamentarians from 18 countries around the world. We gathered at the Nobel Peace Centre, in Oslo, to create the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief, and to jointly sign its charter. Our goal is to work together to give all people the right to believe as they choose, to change that belief if they choose, and to practise those beliefs.
It is incumbent on all of us to do everything we can to ensure that these vital freedoms are accurately understood and adequately protected. We are inviting parliamentarians from all parties, all regions, and all religions to join with us in this fight for a basic human right.