WUNRN
Sixth Session of the UN Human Rights
Council
Joint
Statement
Item 3
Review, Rationalizaton and Improvement of the Mandate of
the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief
Submitted by: Worldwide Organization for Women and Other NGO’s
Women are at the heart of any society’s culture because of the essential role they play in society as women are a positive force to promote peace and ensure education in terms of cultural and ethical values.
Mothers are the first teachers and caregivers of their children . They are first to teachtolerance, respect for others, and an appreciation of the value of religious traditions. It is vital that parents ensure their child’s religious and ethical education which can serve as a foundation for lifetime experiences. Women should to be given recognition and supported in their role in influence on children in early life to lay the foundation for a genuine human rights culture.
Society as a whole benefits when women have the opportunity for education, leadership in the religious and cultural community, as well as participation in religious dialogue. This is encouraged by the special rapporteur. However, 2/3 of the 130 million children not attending school are girls. This points to a larger challenge in society. A stronger mandate needs to be made for education for all, especially for girls.
In some societies cultural and religious traditions can promote practices that are harmful to women’s physical and mental health as seen in honor killings, violence against women, and female genital mutilation or overt discrimination on the female gender as seen in female infanticide. The value of a woman can only be realized if the cultural or religious traditions add to her well-being and enhance her role in society.
It is for this reason that it is essential that the values of cultures and religious traditions values not only enhance the role of women but provide an outlet for full participation in the educational system and in discussions of religious rights.
The recommendations of the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief will only have great impact if women have the opportunity to be full participants within their religious and cultural communities. Input and full recognition of the value of their unique perspective in intereligious dialogue often bringing a fuller vision and experience of real life solutions to issues on the table. This should include recommendation about the process that could enhance this opportunity which would be a welcome addition to the mandates.
We are most appreciative of the opportunity to speak and thank the special rapporteur for her continued work to make the full inclusion of women and their viewpoints possible.
Other NGOs: Pan Pacific and SouthEast Asia Women’s Association International,
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Thank you.