Australia is well known for its religious and cultural diversity, with more than 65% adhering to a world religion. A majority of Australians hold religious beliefs that enrich their communities. This prevalence highlights the cultural and spiritual significance that religion holds within the country. It enlightens a sense of a vibrant tapestry of traditions, values, and perspectives, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for diversity.
However, there is a coexistence of different belief systems and hateful coercion towards many religious groups in Australia, leading these groups to feel pressured to abandon their beliefs. Over the course of our recent history, most faith communities have experienced challenges and backlash. Such acts of discrimination and hostility directed towards these groups compel them to relinquish or violate their beliefs to safety the demands of social or political forces.
As per the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 18, this right ensures freedom of thought and religion without fear of discrimination or harm. This right ensures that individuals have the liberty to hold their own beliefs. Regardless of such rights, the promise of religious freedom has often failed to follow its practice. This alarms the continuous effort we need to put in to bridge this gap and seek a path to support each other and our freedom of choosing our religious beliefs.
