The global landscape is increasingly defined by fragility – geopolitical tensions, humanitarian crises, and a rise in authoritarianism are destabilizing communities and threatening fundamental human rights. Within this context, the United Kingdom’s reinvigorated strategy for protecting freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) represents a critical, albeit complex, undertaking. This effort, spearheaded by the newly appointed Special Envoy, reflects a recognition that FoRB is not merely a humanitarian concern, but a core element of international stability and a foundational pillar of human dignity. This strategy, coupled with the sustained work of the Article 18 Alliance, demands careful analysis and a long-term perspective.
The scale of the challenge is stark. Aid to the Church in Need’s 2025 Religious Freedom in the World Report estimates that over 5.4 billion people, nearly two thirds of the world’s population, live in countries where serious FoRB violations or abuses occur. The Pew Research Centre’s data confirms a disturbing trend: the number of countries with “high” or “very high” levels of government restrictions on FoRB has risen to its highest level since 2007. This escalation is driven by several converging factors: worsening authoritarianism, including restrictions on freedom of assembly; ongoing war and conflict; and a demonstrable rise in religious nationalism, frequently employed as a tool for social control and exclusion. These dynamics directly impact vulnerable communities, disproportionately affecting religious minorities and those who practice beliefs deemed ‘non-compliant’ by dominant regimes.
The UK’s Renewed Strategy and the Article 18 Alliance. The UK government launched a comprehensive new FoRB strategy in July, recognizing that “FoRB is central to global stability.” This strategy rests on five key strands: multilateral advocacy, targeted bilateral engagement, mainstreaming FoRB across the (FCDO) portfolio, increasing civil society engagement, and strengthening coalition building for collective action. Critically, the UK’s approach is inextricably linked to the sustained work of the Article 18 Alliance, a coalition of states, civil society organizations, and religious leaders dedicated to promoting and protecting FoRB. The Alliance, now comprised of 38 states and numerous observers, represents a significant force for change, providing a platform for coordinated advocacy and collaborative action.
Successes and Ongoing Challenges. The Article 18 Alliance has demonstrably achieved tangible results. Within the past five years, the Alliance has overseen the release of prominent figures, including Hannah Abdimalik (Somaliland), Shamil Khakimov (Tajikistan), and Mubarak Bala (Nigeria). The support provided by the UK, often in conjunction with Humanists International, through open letters from former Foreign Secretaries, proved instrumental in securing their freedom. Furthermore, the Alliance’s work in challenging violations, such as advocating for religious freedom in Tibet and Ukraine, highlights the breadth and depth of its engagement. The ongoing Working Groups, focused on addressing issues like FoRB in the digital age, exemplify the Alliance’s commitment to practical solutions. However, the landscape remains fraught with challenges. The recent conflicts in Sudan and Ukraine have dramatically intensified the persecution of religious minorities, demanding an amplified response. The rise of online hate speech and the manipulation of religious beliefs for extremist purposes necessitate new strategies.
Looking Ahead: A Multifaceted Approach. The UK’s renewed commitment to FoRB demands a shift towards a more proactive and multifaceted strategy. Three key areas require immediate attention. First, Alliance expansion is paramount. Rushan Abbas, a prominent advocate for religious freedom, correctly noted, “Silence is the oxygen of tyranny.” Actively seeking new partners, particularly in underrepresented regions—such as Southeast Asia and Central Africa—will dramatically increase the Alliance’s reach and impact. Second, targeted efforts – including supporting reform of discriminatory laws and championing individual cases – must continue with urgency. This requires utilizing every available diplomatic mechanism, including engagement with the UN’s Universal Periodic Review and deep collaboration with human rights defenders. Thirdly, FoRB must be fully mainstreamed within the FCDO’s broader foreign policy objectives. Recognizing that persecution based on religion or belief drives displacement, fuels extremism, and undermines prosperity, necessitates a strategic realignment of international engagement.
The path forward necessitates a sustained and coordinated effort, acknowledging that FoRB is not simply a reactive measure, but a proactive investment in global stability and human dignity. As former US President Jimmy Carter poignantly stated, “Because we are free, we can never be indifferent to the fate of freedom elsewhere.” Let us reflect on this sentiment, fostering a global community where all individuals, regardless of their beliefs, can exercise their fundamental rights without fear or persecution.