Faith-Based Actors Can Play Crucial Role in Enhancing Human Rights for All, Secretary-General Tells Conference on Religions, Creeds and Value systems

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the Conference on Religions, Creeds and Value Systems Joining Forces to Promote Equal Citizenship Rights, under the patronage of Prince el Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, in Geneva today:

[Your Royal Highness, Prince El Hassan bin Talal of Jordan], distinguished participants,

I am inspired by your coming together around a shared commitment to human rights and equal citizenship.

Religious leaders wield significant influence on the hearts and minds of billions.  Faith-based actors can play a crucial role in enhancing human rights for all.

Diversity is a richness.  We must raise our voices in support of our multicultural communities and our shared values.  Promoting freedom of religion or belief for everyone means standing up for equal rights for all.

Let us defend our common humanity.  Let us unite for equal rights for all without discrimination.  Thank you.