OSCE Centre in Astana facilitates dialogue on freedom of religion or belief

ASTANA, 19 March 2013 - State officials, parliamentarians, religious leaders, scholars and non-governmental organization representatives discussed how to foster interfaith dialogue at a conference organized in Astana today by the Agency for Religious Affairs, and Foreign Ministry of Kazakhstan with the OSCE Centre’s support.

Some 100 participants discussed ways to implement the principles of freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief. The role of religious tolerance in a pluralistic and secular society, importance of the freedom of religion or belief in addressing contemporary threats and challenges and a review of implementation of the OSCE commitments in this area were all discussed.

Experts from Canada, the Russian Federation and Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan as well as of OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights’ Advisory Panel of Experts on Freedom of Religion or Belief shared experiences in promoting and protecting this fundamental right, and discussed its role in the fight against violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism. 

"Freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief are among the long-standing commitments in the OSCE," said Ambassador Natalia Zarudna, the Head of OSCE Centre in Astana, in her opening speech. "This event is an opportunity for authorities, religious associations and scholars to engage in a dialogue on mutual rights and obligations when promoting freedom of religion or belief, tolerance and non-discrimination.”

She added that the conference is part of the OSCE Centre’s support to Kazakhstan’s authorities and non-governmental stakeholders in facilitating inter-religious dialogue in line with OSCE and international principles and commitments.

Kairat Lama Sharif, the Chair of Kazakhstan’s Agency of Religious Affairs, said: “We are open to discuss the implementation of the law ‘On Religious Activities’ in various forums, including during today’s discussion, which is a part of a continued constructive dialogue on freedom of religion principles in Kazakhstan.”