GENEVA, MARCH 10 – The Deputy Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, Marie Sol Fulci, took the floor today at the Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, in the framework of the 49th session of the Human Rights Council.
“Our approach is guided by the Italian Constitution, which states that all individuals are equal before the law regardless of their faith and are free to profess and manifest their religion or belief”, the Deputy Permanent Representative stated, adding that also in the occasion of the G20 Interfaith Forum, within the framework of the Italian G20 Presidency in 2021, “Italy reiterated its commitment to promote freedom of religion or belief, as well as cross-cultural, cross-religious and interfaith dialogue, as an essential element to foster mutual understanding, respect for diversity and reconciliation, thus contributing to build inclusive and peaceful societies”.
Deputy PR Fulci underlined that Italy works with determination for the protection of people belonging to religious minorities, particularly those who are victims of sectarian violence and live in crisis areas, and promotes humanitarian and development cooperation programmes to support them. Finally she recalled that since 2019 a “Fund for direct support for Christian minorities persecuted in crisis areas” has been established, which is currently undertaking four projects in the MENA region.
Read the full statement here. (@OnuItalia)
