Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB) is a fundamental human right, enshrined in international and UK law, and crucial for building inclusive societies.
Despite these legal safeguards, recent studies have found that religious groups face harassment in various countries worldwide, from a range of state and non-state actors. Religious divisions, restrictions on practices, and debates over the role of religion in politics and public life are challenging established FoRB protections.
Protecting rights, promoting dialogue, taking action: Emerging Leaders in Freedom of Religion and Belief
In response to these challenges, Cumberland Lodge is relaunching its Freedom of Religion and Belief programme. We aim to bring together emerging faith and community leaders to engage with the contemporary social, political, and legal challenges facing FoRB and, more broadly, social cohesion.
Through this programme, participants will be able to:
- Understand and articulate the legal and ethical foundations of FoRB
- Deepen their understanding of the connection between FoRB and broader challenges to social cohesion
- Apply core leadership and dialogic skills in navigating difficult or polarised conversations
- Build a relational network of leaders in rights, dialogue, and social action, supporting each other in driving change
These emerging leaders will appreciate that rights can be the common foundation for building just, inclusive and peaceful societies. Further they will be equipped with dialogue and leadership skills to respond constructively to difference. In connecting these approaches, participants will develop a toolkit of practical skills to strengthen their ability to address challenges to FoRB and social cohesion in their communities.
In addition to the workshops, learning will be supported via online resources and facilitated webinars held between retreats. An online peer-to-peer network will be established to allow discussion and support to continue. This will lead to a growing network of young people advocating for protection of freedom of religion and belief and the promotion of dialogue.
The project utilises Cumberland Lodge’s expertise in facilitating difficult conversations, building trust-based relationships, and enabling open discussions between participants while respecting differences of opinion.