Pope Francis recalls that "about a third of the world's population" lives in a country where "religious freedom is limited"

Pope Francis spoke about religious freedom during his greetings to members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See.

On Monday, Pope Francis pronounced his vows to members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See. He warned them against the increase in violence and discrimination against Christians

Speaking about Peace in Truth, he asserted that “peace also demands that religious freedom be universally recognized”.

“It is worrying that people are persecuted simply for publicly professing their faith, and that there are many countries where religious freedom is restricted. About a third of the world's population lives in this situation. »

Pope Francis then engaged on the subject of persecution for religious reasons, recalling "that one in seven Christians is persecuted".

“Besides the lack of religious freedom, there is also persecution on religious grounds. I cannot fail to mention, as certain statistics show, the fact that one in seven Christians is persecuted. In this regard, I express the hope that the new European Union Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the European Union will have the resources and means necessary to fulfill his mandate as he agrees. »

Then he made a point of stressing that the persecution of Christians also existed in countries where they are not a minority.

“At the same time, it is good not to forget that violence and discrimination against Christians is also increasing in countries where they are not a minority. Religious freedom is also endangered when believers see their ability to express their beliefs in the sphere of social life reduced, in the name of a misunderstanding of inclusion. Religious freedom, which cannot be reduced to simple freedom of worship, is one of the minimum conditions for living in dignity. »

And this religious freedom, he affirmed, "governments have the duty to protect it, and to guarantee to every person, in accordance with the common good, the possibility of acting according to his conscience, including in public life and in the exercise of his profession”.

MC
source: Vatican

Image credit: Shutterstock / PIXEL2020