24/01/2011

Religious Freedom: core business of the EPP Group

One of the main interests of the Group of the European People's Party (Christian Democrats) in the European Parliament (EPP Group) is to have regular contact with representatives of diverse religious communities. One of the main topics of discussion with these communities is freedom of religion and Christians in particular.

In 2010, the EPP Group organised several conferences and hearings with representatives of religious communities where the Group expressed its political voice in specific areas such as the persecution of Christians.

75% of religiously-motivated violence in the world last year was against Christians and more than 1000 Christians have been killed and 1 million displaced from Iraq over the last few years. Fundamentalism is often a pretext for taking power, with Christianity often deliberately confused with the West for this reason. Othmar Karas MEP, Vice-Chairman of the EPP Group responsible for inter-cultural activities, said: "Many people do not realise that it can be dangerous being a Christian in many parts of the world, and it is becoming more and more dangerous. The Copt and Christian communities in Egypt and Iraq are currently under attack. However, in North Korea, for example, you even risk execution or deportation for owning a Bible. It is also difficult in Turkey to be a Christian."

Religious freedom is not just about Christians, it is also about fundamental human rights. The EPP Group's point of view is that respect of religious freedom should be introduced into the European Union's foreign policy. This implies that 'respect of religious freedom' be incorporated in international Treaties as a clause, for example, in the areas of trade, foreign aid or the reconstruction of Iraq. Religious freedom is also an important point for the EPP Group during negotiations with EU candidate countries such as Turkey. This can be a defining point in their bid to become Member States of the EU.

The EPP Group has initiated a Written Declaration on the topic in the European Parliament and a plenary debate in the European Parliament which resulted in the adoption of a Resolution. The Resolution calls on the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, to take action by, for example, tying economic aid to the protection of religious and ethnic minorities. More effective and timely action in defence of Christian communities is needed.

Threat of increasing religious intolerance

The EPP Group is not only active in the debate on increasing religious tolerance outside the European Union, but has also started an internal dialogue on the topic.

Religion has always been an important part of European identity. For this reason, the Lisbon Treaty states that there should be a constant dialogue between the EU and religious groups. The EPP Group is taking this forward via its inter-religious dialogues with the Jewish community, the Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Churches, and representatives of Islam. Religion is an important source of inspiration for the EPP Group. The Group also recognises the influence and importance of religion in society. It is therefore important to exchange thoughts with religious communities on contemporary politics and the future of the European Union.