Faith and Democracy Belong Together
Indonesia. Photo: Hilda Weges, Shutterstock


Respect for human rights is a prerequisite for a democratic society. Based on our Christian values, we believe that every human being is created in the image of God and has inviolable and equal rights to live his or her life in freedom.
Everyone working with people in international development cooperation, in conflict situations, and in social or humanitarian work, need knowledge about the role of religion in the particular context that they work in, in order to do a good job.
Read more and access our resources on religious literacy.
Religion is important in most parts of the world
In almost every village around the world there is a church, a temple or a mosque where people gather for community. For many, this is an important meeting place where their innermost driving forces can grow and contribute to the work for a better world.
We believe that every person has a duty and the ability to work against injustice. Faith and conviction can motivate people to work for change and while also inspiring hope for the future. These are forces to be reckoned with. We work to promote the freedom of religion or belief for all people so that these forces can come to good use.
Read more and access our resources on freedom of religion.
Religion and human rights as two languages
Our long experience of working with faith-based organisations means that we can understand and find special ways to contribute to lasting change in difficult situations.
One way our network manages difficult situations is by talking about human rights based on a religious or theological understanding, for example by using stories from the Bible or the Koran. But we also find it useful to talk about religion with the help of human rights. In this way, we are bilingual and can interpret between different understandings. It is a great asset in our work where we relate to both religious and political duty bearers.
Related documents
In this short guide we explain what freedom of religion or belief is, and when it may be restricted. Last updated in 2023.
Claming Space for Faith – including Freedom of Religion or Belief in the fight for civic space
In this report from 2020, we examine the connections between shrinking civic space and the negative trend for freedom of religion and belief.
For Better for Worse
In this anthology from 2019 we examine the role of religion in development cooperation.
Policy for religious literacy
Adopted by the Board 2019-03-06
Policy for a Human Rights Perspective
Adopted by the Board 2014-03-13
Policy for gender equality
Adopted by the Board 2016-03-10




Religiös läskunnighet
Who Cares About Religion?
Everyone working with people in international development cooperation, in conflict situations, and in social or humanitarian work, need knowledge about the role of religion in the particular context that they work in, in order to do a good job. We know where you can start.


Freedom of Religion or Belief
What is freedom of religion or belief?
Freedom of religion or belief is a human right that gives every person the right to have, to change, or to leave his or her religion or belief. We are experts on this freedom and offer both international educations within our network and online resources to anyone who wishes to learn more.
Films about Freedom of Religion
We are part of the FoRB Learning Platform where you can access free educational materials such as films and manuals to learn more about this human right.