THE FREEDOM TO BELIEVE. A HUMAN RIGHT AT THE CENTER OF GEOPOLITICAL CHALLENGES

Promoted by the Italian Council for Freedom of Religion or Belief, Fondazione Internazionale Oasis, Pro Terra Sancta and Fondazione AVSI

Cristina Duranti, Director of Good Shepherd International Foundation; H.E. Matthew Hassan Kukah, Bishop of the Diocese of Sokoto (Nigeria); Mairead McGuinness, special envoy of the European Union for the promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief. Moderated by Andrea Avveduto, journalist and spokesperson for the Italian Council for Freedom of Religion or Belief. Concluding remarks by Daniela Canclini, President of the Italian Council for Freedom of Religion or Belief

Freedom of religion or belief, a pillar of human dignity and democratic societies, is today threatened in many regions of the world by persecution, discrimination, and violence linked to faith. In an international context marked by conflicts and radicalization, its protection proves crucial for peace and social cohesion. The meeting explores the role of religious freedom in contemporary geopolitical dynamics, with particular attention to minorities in crisis areas and to the contribution of faith communities to processes of reconciliation. It also examines the responsibilities of the European Union, Italy, and international cooperation in strengthening diplomatic and political tools in defense of this fundamental right.