EFC Election Kit 2008: Fact Sheet on Religious Freedom Internationally

What is Freedom of Religion?

Our primary responsibility as Christians is to worship God and obey him. An integral part of worshiping God is speaking about him to others. We obey God’s commands by loving our neighbour, seeking justice and mercy, and respecting life.

Why are we interested in International Religious Freedom?

As Christians, we are called to care for our neighbour, particularly the vulnerable. Our neighbors include all people around the world because God has created and loves them. As Christians, we are particularly to remember other Christians who are persecuted for their faith. More than 200 million people in over 60 countries are denied their basic human rights because of their Christian faith. Members of Parliament may express concern about religious persecution and ask for religious freedom to be respected through correspondence, statements in the House of Commons or during international visits.

In April 2005, the federal government released an International Policy Statement. It did not mention religious persecution, although it is a highly visible category of violation of international human rights.

Questions to ask on this issue:

• How do you plan to address issues of religious persecution around the world?
• Do you support the government of Canada taking into consideration the issue of religious freedom in a country when involved in trade discussions with that country?