New York Multinational Efforts to Strengthen Freedom of Religion or Belief

September 17, 2015

Senator Ngo attended a conference on the Multinational Efforts to Strengthen Freedom of Religion or Belief from September 17 to 19, 2015, in the context of the United Nations, in New York City, as a member of the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB). During this event, the Senator discussed with fellow parliamentarians and politicians from across the world how to implement and encourage freedom of religion or belief as a fundamental right that is to be enjoyed and exercised by all as understood under Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These rights, however continue to be greatly violated in many parts around the world, including in Vietnam. The consultation provided key stakeholders a platform that allowed them to identify ways to increase their international cooperation in defence of these basic rights. In an effort to address Vietnam’s critical human rights record, Senator Ngo and other attending members signed a joint letter addressed to the Prime Minister of Vietnam, raising concerns  and the need for Vietnam to end systematic oppression of religious minorities and to enact greater respect for religious freedom.

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