Violence and repressive measures have increased in recent years. Believers are often denied the right to express and practice their faith, even when doing so does not threaten public safety or violate the rights of others, said Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, permanent observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, during the 52nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Persecution of people only for publicly professing the faith is disturbing, said the hierarch, who on March 15 was appointed secretary of the Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches in the Vatican Dicastery for Evangelization.

He pointed out that restrictions on religious freedom are taking place today in many countries, where about a third of the world’s population lives. Universal recognition of religious freedom is an absolute condition for peace and an indispensable condition for a dignified life.

Source: pch24.pl