IPPFoRB Marks Human Rights Day With Launch of “Freedom of Religion or Belief: The Hidden Right” Video

To commemorate Human Rights Day, the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB) has released a new awareness‑raising video titled “Freedom of Religion or Belief: The Hidden Right.” The video highlights the global challenges facing freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), one of the most misunderstood and frequently violated human rights, and underscores the critical role parliamentarians play in its protection.

Produced as part of IPPFoRB’s ongoing efforts to support legislators worldwide, the video explains how FoRB violations—ranging from discrimination and harassment to violence and persecution—continue to affect individuals and communities across all regions. It also stresses the broader societal consequences of these violations, including rising tensions, social fragmentation, and threats to peace and security.

A Call to Action on Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day provides a timely reminder of the universal rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Through this video, IPPFoRB encourages parliamentarians, civil society actors, and the public to recognise FoRB as a cornerstone of human dignity and a foundation for the enjoyment of other rights.

The video outlines the key elements of FoRB: the right to hold a belief, to change it, to manifest it publicly or privately, or to have no belief at all. It also highlights the responsibilities of states to uphold these freedoms without discrimination.

Showcasing IPPFoRB’s Role

The video emphasises IPPFoRB’s mission to empower parliamentarians to address FoRB challenges through informed lawmaking, oversight, and dialogue. It showcases the network’s global initiatives, including regional academies, peer‑to‑peer exchanges, and cross‑party cooperation aimed at protecting vulnerable communities and strengthening democratic resilience.

By launching the video on Human Rights Day, IPPFoRB reinforces its commitment to raising awareness of FoRB as a fundamental right that demands attention, understanding, and action from policymakers around the world.

See the new video below: