Sarajevo Hosts Launch of IPPFoRB's Southeast Europe Network (IPPFoRB SEE) for freedom of religion or belief

IPPFoRB Southeast Europe Network launch. Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo, 2023. Photo: Funda Tekin/IPPFoRB

Sarajevo, January 20, 2024 – On Thursday, January 19 in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief - Southeast Europe network was launched (IPPFoRB SEE).

The launch marks a significant step toward fostering freedom of religion or belief in Southeast Europe. The inaugural ceremony of the network, held at the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina, unfolded with impactful sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and historic commitments. The event brought together esteemed speakers and participants, including parliamentarians and civil society members from the region, to explore, discuss, and commit to protect freedom of religion or belief in the Southeast Europe. Representing a diverse assembly, participants from various countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Romania gathered for this international event.

With a mission to actively contribute to safeguarding everyone's right to freedom of religion or belief in the region by the vital involvement of the parliamentarians, the IPPFoRB SEE network marked the culmination of extensive and dedicated efforts, and preparatory work that included workshops and discussions, by IPPFoRB over several years.

A commitment to uphold all human rights without discrimination

The ceremony commenced with opening remarks by the Member of the Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina Sabina Ćudić and IPPFoRB Director Fernanda San Martin Carrasco. Their insightful remarks set the stage for a series of discussions and commitments toward promoting and protecting freedom of religion or belief in Southeast Europe. Ćudic emphasized the vital importance of freedom of religion or belief in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in the region. As a parliamentarian, she stressed the commitment to uphold all human rights without discrimination, urging a move beyond stereotypes for a more inclusive understanding.

**Sanela Shkrijel**, Member of the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia. Photo: Funda Tekin/ IPPFoRB

Parliamentarians as catalysts for peace and inclusive societies

Sanela Shkrijel, Member of the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia and IPPFoRB Steering Group Member underscored the pivotal role of parliamentarians in championing freedom of religion or belief. Emphasizing their responsibility to achieve a holistic human rights agenda, Shkrijel highlighted the importance of fostering diversity and preventing discrimination in multicultural societies.

Nuanced challenges faced in Southeast Europe

Susan Kerr, Senior Adviser on Freedom of Religion or Belief at the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, delivered an insightful keynote speech. Kerr's address illuminated the nuanced challenges faced in the OSCE region and more specifically Southeast Europe concerning freedom of religion or belief. Her keynote paved the way for exploring the complexities of the region.

Historic commitment: Signing of the Sarajevo Declaration

A significant highlight of the first day was the presentation and signing of the IPPFoRB Sarajevo Declaration. This landmark document, signed by parliamentarians and civil society members from the region, symbolizes a collective commitment to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief.

After the signature, the event proceeded with a workshop guided by Susan Kerr. Engaging in a crucial dialogue, Kerr focused on the importance of freedom of religion or belief literacy for members of parliament, emphasizing the significance of understanding and advocating for freedom of religion or belief.

Insightful sessions with Dr. Mine Yildirim and Fernanda San Martin

The event gained further momentum with sessions guided by Dr. Mine Yildirim, Coordinator of the Freedom of Belief Initiative in Turkey, and Fernanda San Martin, IPPFoRB Director on January 20. Participants actively engaged in discussions, exploring the diverse landscape of freedom of religion or belief. The event concluded with insightful deliberations among parliamentarians, shaping the trajectory of the emerging network.

More about the IPPFoRB SEE History:

One of the milestones of this journey is the 2021 Report "Strengthening the Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief in Western Balkans: A Roadmap for Parliamentarians", written by Dr. Mine Yildirim, commissioned by IPPFoRB.  Moreover, a noteworthy occasion was the IPPFoRB Western Balkans Workshop, held in Ohrid in 2022 — a gathering that included not just parliamentarians but also engaged members of civil society from the region.

In August 2023, an online consultation where former and current parliamentarians discussed the potential of a regional network was held. Together, they decided to launch the IPPFoRB Southeastern Europe network. This endeavor seeks to consolidate and amplify the collective efforts of MPs who have been strongly committed to advocating for freedom of religion or belief, both in their capacities as members of parliament and through broader international collaborations.

For more information, please contact:

Sara Machado, IPPFoRB Communications and Advocacy Adviser
sm@nhc.no / +47 453 80 822