A statement by the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken regarding the respect for the freedom of religion in the world was published on 17 November 2021. The United States is deeply concerned in regard to the situation in the sphere of religious freedoms.
iDemocracy informs so with the reference to the press release of the US Department of State.
«In far too many places around the world, we continue to see governments harass, arrest, threaten, jail, and kill individuals simply for seeking to live their lives in accordance with their beliefs. This Administration is committed to supporting every individual’s right to freedom of religion or belief, including by confronting and combating violators and abusers of this human right»,– the message reads.
Due to these circumstances, the USA has prepared a list of countries and organizations against which it can impose sanctions for severe violations of religious rights and freedoms in accordance with the US International Religious Freedom Act. For instance, the United States has included Myanmar, China, Eritrea, Iran, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan to the list of countries of particular concern due to «systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom».
Meanwhile, Antony Blinken highlighted that the challenges to religious freedom have got some structured, systemic and deeply entrenched character. That is why the international community should pay attention to them and apply appropriate actions.
«The United States remains committed to working with governments, civil society organizations, and members of religious communities to advance religious freedom around the world»,– summarized the US Secretary of State.
Let us recall that Director of NGO iDemocracy for Human Rights Initiative Mykola Kuleba has previously taken a part in promoting religious youth initiatives in Ukraine.