June 18, 2014 - Andrew Bennett, Canada’s Ambassador for Religious Freedom, today issued the following statement in advance of discriminatory religious laws being returned to the Burmese parliament this Friday:
“Canada is concerned that the proposed ‘four laws’ currently under consideration by the Burmese parliament are not in keeping with Burma’s international commitments to protect freedom of religion, including the right to change one’s faith. As drafted, the laws would also be in violation of international standards on women’s rights.
“Burma has made great strides in growing its democracy. However, these regressive laws would improperly make the government the arbiter of any religious conversion. This is not only a violation of the freedom of Burmese citizens, but runs the risk of fuelling further discrimination against religious communities, including Muslims and Christians.
“These laws may also put at risk efforts by the Burmese government and the Rakhine Commission to address concerns regarding violence against religious and ethnic minorities, and the ambition of the government and ethnic minorities to forge a nation-wide peace after decades of intercommunal conflict. We urge reconsideration of the draft legislation.
“Continued growth of strong democratic institutions and long-term prosperity go hand in hand with fostering religious freedom, pluralism, peace and security. Canada is committed to working with Burmese authorities during this period of transition to democracy and a national ceasefire, and looks forward to continuing discussion, including with the minister of religious affairs and members the Rakhine Commission and civil society.”
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