Holy See diplomat laments Ukraine conflict, violations of religious freedom

December 09, 2014

In a statement addressed to the annual meeting of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which took place from December 4-5, a leading Holy See diplomat deplored the conflict in Ukraine, the persecution of Christians, and other violations of religious freedom.

“We cannot be silent in the face of tens of thousands of Christians who are persecuted and killed worldwide every year, including in areas bordering on the OSCE region,” said Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, who is concluding his tenure as the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States. “There is no doubt that these profoundly deplorable crimes, which also place the security of participating States at risk, must be strongly condemned and opposed.”

“We continue to insist that the full guarantee of religious freedom cannot be limited to the free exercise of worship; it must also give due consideration to the public dimension of religion and, hence, to the possibility of believers exercising their responsibility in building the social order,” he added. “Every violation of religious freedom, whether explicit or subtle, does fundamental damage to the cause of peace and security.”

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Statement of the Holy See at the twenty-first Ministerial Council of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (Holy See Press Office)