“We publish this report in tumultuous times that underscore the importance of freedom of religion to peaceful political and economic development, democratic institutions, and flourishing societies. Religious freedom is the right of all human beings, a fundamental tenet of the 1948 Universal Declaration on Human Rights, and protected under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Guaranteeing religious freedom requires governments to enact and enforce strong laws and promote respect for religious diversity. Nonetheless, as this report demonstrates, many governments continue to repress religious freedom and persecute persons on the basis of their religion. Such repression marginalizes vulnerable populations, emboldens extremists, fuels sectarian tensions, and robs societies of the moral and charitable contributions of faith communities. Repression of religious freedom runs contrary to shared universal values and undermines genuine stability. President Obama has emphasized the U.S. commitment to defend religious freedom in the United States and around the world. It is an essential element of our global commitment to advance human rights and promote national security.”
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