Religious freedom advocates have welcomed news Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon has been appointed UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief.
In a statement on Wednesday, the UK Government said the role will allow Lord Ahmad, who is also Minister of State for the Commonwealth and the UN at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, to “demonstrate the country’s commitment to religious freedom by promoting inter-faith respect and dialogue internationally” as well as promoting the UK’s “firm stance on religious tolerance abroad, helping to tackle religious discrimination in countries where minority faith groups face persecution”.
Mrs May said in the statement that religious discrimination was a “blight” on the lives of millions of people across the globe and led to conflict and instability. “Tolerance for those of different faiths is fundamental to our values…” she said.
Mervyn Thomas, chief executive of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, expressed his delight at the appointment.
“CSW has been greatly encouraged by Lord Ahmad’s concern and dedication for those around the world of all creeds or none who experience injustice because of their religion or belief, and we look forward to continuing to work with him to uphold and promote the right to freedom of religion or belief for all.”
