Article 18: a fundamental human right for every individual and community.
“Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.”
Interpreted according to the principles of universality and non-discrimination: it protects and prohibits discrimination against any belief or religion, whether majority or minority. Collective and individual freedom belongs to individuals and religious and non-religious groups.
Indivisibility and equality of collective and individual rights: it must be interpreted in harmony (and not in conflict) with other human rights. It can never be used to justify discrimination, inequality, or violations of freedom of religion or other human rights.
American Convention on Human Rights 1969
Article 12 of the convention, titled “Freedom of Conscience and Religion,” underscores the inherent right of every individual to enjoy freedom of conscience and religion. This encompassing right not only safeguards the practice of one’s existing religion or belief but also recognizes the liberty to make choices regarding the preservation or alteration of one’s religious affiliations. The article emphasizes the profound significance of personal autonomy in matters of conscience and religion, allowing individuals the freedom to adhere to their chosen faith or to undergo a change in religious convictions.
Universal Islamic Declaration of Human Rights (1981),
Under article 12, the declaration affirms the right to express thoughts and convictions within the limits prescribed by the Law. Prohibition of spreading falsehoods, disseminating news likely to outrage public decency, slander, and defamation. Every Muslim has the right and duty to protect and combat oppression, even against the highest authorities of the State, within the limits set by the law. No obstacle to the dissemination of information if it does not endanger the security of society or the State, and within the limits imposed by the law. It is forbidden to scorn, ridicule, or encourage public hostility against the religious beliefs of other individuals.
Arab Charter on Human Rights (1994)
Article 3 of the charter firmly establishes the prohibition of religious discrimination. Moving to Article 25, the charter extends the right to religious practice for minorities, emphasizing that such practices are subject to legal regulation. Additionally, Article 30 underscores the unequivocal freedom of thought, conviction, and religion, with the only exceptions being those stipulated by law.
