What is Article 18?
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
The UDHR is an international document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948, which enshrines the rights and freedoms of all human beings. The Declaration consists of 30 articles detailing an individual’s “basic rights and fundamental freedoms”, and affirming their universal character as inherent, inalienable, and applicable to all human beings. The UDHR commits nations to recognise all humans as being “born free and equal in dignity and rights”, regardless of “nationality, place of residence, gender, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language, or any other status”. Although not legally binding, the contents of the UDHR have been elaborated and incorporated into subsequent international treaties, such as the ICCPR.
Article 18 of UDHR reads:
“
Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.
”
International Covenant on Civil
and Political Rights
(ICCPR)
The ICCPR is a multilateral treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 16 December 1966, and in force since 23 March 23 1976. It commits its parties to respect the civil and political rights of individuals, including the right to freedom of religion. The ICCPR is monitored by the Human Rights Committee (a separate body to the Human Rights Council), which reviews regular reports of States parties on how the rights are being implemented.
Article 18 of UDHR reads:
“
- Everyone shall have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. This right shall include freedom to have or to adopt a religion or belief of his choice, and freedom, either individually or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in worship, observance, practice and teaching.
- No one shall be subject to coercion which would impair his freedom to have or to adopt a religion or belief of his choice.
- Freedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs may be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health, or morals or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others.
- The States Parties to the present Covenant undertake to have respect for the liberty of parents and, when applicable, legal guardians to ensure the religious and moral education of their children in conformity with their own convictions.
”
District 18
A video animation to help you raise awareness about freedom of religion or belief