Submission from the National Spiritual
Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the United Kingdom
1. The Bahá'í Community of
the United Kingdom believes that existing religious offences,
notably that of blasphemy, should be abolished.
2. Legislation may well be part of the overall
effort to counter any form of religious discrimination. However,
the limitations of the law in forging changes in attitude at the
community level also need to be acknowledged. It is clear that
legislation is not in itself sufficient in tackling prejudice
and acts of discrimination. Laws must be supported by a global
culture of human rights.
3. To eradicate religious intolerance at
its root, legislation must be supported by education, beginning
in primary school. Children who learn to see in all religions
the signs of the one Creator, will consider all religions part
of a common human heritage, worthy not only of respect but of
careful study.
4. Heartfelt commitment to upholding the
rights of everyone is unlikely if the goal of human rights education
stops at mere tolerance. Not until we truly value the diverse
groups that constitute the human family and learn attitudes and
skills necessary for full co-operation, will a peaceful yet pluralistic
society be possible.
5. The Bahá'í Community of
the United Kingdom would welcome well-drafted and well-conceived
legislation, specially as part of a wider effort in promoting
a culture of human rights.
6. In order to tackle institutional discrimination,
an ongoing dialogue between the Government and interfaith bodies
should be nurtured, to deal with a range of social and economic
issues.
7. The Department for Education and Skills
and Local Education Authorities need to continue and reinforce
education against religious discrimination. The goal should be
to educate students with a knowledge and appreciation of other
religions.
19 July 2002
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