Right to life is foundation of all human rights, Vatican envoy tells UN
October 30, 2014
At an October 29 UN meeting devoted to human rights, the Holy See’s Permanent Observer said that “the right to life as enshrined in natural law and protected by international human rights laws lies at the foundation of all human rights.”
The Vatican envoy's address went on to call for abolition of the death penalty. The speech did not mention abortion.
“The Holy See reaffirms that all life must be fully protected in all its stages from conception until natural death,” said Archbishop Bernardito Auza. “In this regard, my delegation welcomes the reduction in the last two years of the recourse to the death penalty around the globe.”
After calling for improved prison conditions and the abolition of life imprisonment, Archbishop Auza emphasized threats to religious freedom.
“Along with the right to life, the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion continues to face serious challenges around the world. In some regions, violations against religious freedom have multiplied and intensified in their brutality, in particular against religious minorities,” he said. “My delegation insists that these ruthless violations must not only be seen as violence against ethnic and religious minorities, but first and foremost must be condemned as blatant violations of fundamental human rights, and must be dealt with accordingly.”
The prelate added:
In other parts of the world, religious freedom faces legal barriers put by public authorities and experiences condescending if not outright discriminatory behavior of some in society. Some authorities seek to restrict religious observance to the private realm and impose legal obligations that conflict with personal conscience and religious beliefs.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Holy See to United Nations: Right to Life "foundation" of human rights (Vatican Radio)
- Statement of H.E. Archbishop Bernardito Auza (Holy See Mission)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
