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Motion · S6M-19119 · 29 Sep 2025

International Religious Freedom Day, 27 October 2025

Lodged by Stephen Kerr (Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party) Members' Business Motion 23 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament notes that 27 October 2025 marks International Religious Freedom Day, an annual observance first established following the passage of the United States International Religious Freedom Act in 1998; understands that the day draws attention to the universal right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief, as enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; considers that, despite this right being fundamental, more than 80% of the world’s population live in countries where restrictions or persecution on grounds of religion or belief persist; highlights the work of international and multilateral efforts, such as the International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance, in which the United Kingdom is an active partner, in advocating for those whose rights are curtailed; notes the role of the UK Government’s strategy on freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) as a tool to promote human rights, strengthen inclusive societies, and counter extremism worldwide; further notes the contribution of the Cross Party Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief in the Scottish Parliament, and the All-Party Parliamentary Group on International Freedom of Religion or Belief at the UK Parliament, alongside civil society, in raising awareness and providing a voice for religious minorities and prisoners of conscience, and affirms its support for the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief as a cornerstone of a free, tolerant and democratic society at home and abroad.

Supporters (23)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.