PNG Prime Minister Calls for Protection of Religious Freedom at UN

PNG Prime Minister James Marape has called on the international community to uphold freedom of religion, conscience and thought, warning that religious majorities should never use their power to silence minority faiths.

Speaking at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Mr Marape urged governments and bilateral partners to ensure human rights protections apply equally to all people, regardless of their religious beliefs.

 PNG Prime Minister Calls for Protection of Religious Freedom at UN/Photo supplied

The Prime Minister said political, economic, military, technological or numerical strength should not become a tool for denying another person's basic rights.

“The strength of a nation, a government, an economy, a technology or a religion should never be used to suppress the fundamental rights of another human being,” PM Marape stated.

He also pointed to Section 45 of the PNG Constitution, which provides for freedom of religion and protects citizens from being compelled to observe religious practices.

Mr Marape said Papua New Guinea's predominantly Christian population should not be a reason for religious belief to be imposed through government authority, fear or persecution.

“Faith that is forced is no longer faith,” he said.

The Prime Minister challenged countries with Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist majorities to examine how religious minorities are treated within their own societies.

He said governments had a responsibility to prevent both official discrimination and social persecution based on religious belief.

“You do not have to believe what I believe in order for me to defend your human rights,” PM Marape added.