Attorney Mitch Tyner, representing the Adventist Church, spoke to the UN Religious Committee and highlighted concerns addressing religious freedom and international law.

"Religious liberty is an individual right which needs greater protection," said Tyner, adding, "courts and judges should not be allowed to mandate what religion is and to define religious activities."

Tyner also commented that international documents that appear to protect religious liberty are weak and rarely protect religious minority observances because of the lack of protection against
unintentional burdens to practice religion. The requirement for governments is to either show the burden is really necessary or make accommodation for religious practice.

Tyner spoke to the Non-governmental Organizations Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief held at the United Nations Church Centre on September 25. In attendance were representatives of many religious-based and other civil organizations.

Dr. Don Shriver, President Emeritus of Union Theological Seminary, spoke on the theme of the development of religious freedom throughout history. "Religions out of power demand liberty, religions in power demand uniformity," stated Shriver. "Our challenge is to keep our variety of religious beliefs in some kind of unity."

Dr. Jonathan Gallagher, United Nations Liaison Director for the Adventist Church, who was also in attendance, commented, "Religious liberty concerns are important to both the Adventist church and the wider society. Through our presence at the United Nations we are able to share our convictions regarding religious freedom and to support such fundamental human rights." The UN/NGO Committee on Religion or Belief was recognised by the UN Economic and Social Council in 1991. One of its goals is to support the UN special rapporteur's initiatives against intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief; and appeal to the UN Sub-Commission on the Prevention and Protection of Minorities and the UN Commission on Human Rights to take appropriate actions against intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief. This Committee also helps in the development of an annual report on the worldwide situation of freedom of religion or belief.
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Sources:

ANR (Adventist News Review) is a news and information bulletin issued
by the communication department of the Seventh-day Adventist Church
in the Trans-European Division.

APD (Adventistischer Pressedienst) is a news and information service
of the Swiss Union of Seventh-day Adventist Churches.