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Religious Persecution in Europe: European Commission VP’s Vision for Internal Tolerance and Solidarity

We continue to urge all Greek Orthodox Christians and all people of good will to continue to pray for persecuted Christians and all persecuted people of faith worldwide, that God will comfort the afflicted and illuminate the persecutors with the light of His truth, so that they end their persecution.

“Religious Persecution in Europe: Margaritis Schinas’ Vision for Internal Tolerance and Solidarity,” by Juan Sanchez Gil, European Times, October 10, 2024:

In a passionate and reflective speech delivered at the European Parliament during the “how to stop the rise of religious intolerance in Europe” debate, Mr. Margaritis Schinas, Vice President of the European Commission, addressed the importance of religious freedom, tolerance, and the European way of life. His speech, rich in both historical context and forward-looking vision, called for a united European response to religious intolerance while affirming the values that define Europe today.

Schinas highlighted both the internal and external challenges facing the European Union and emphasized Europe’s commitment to human rights, freedom of religion, and the protection of democracy. However he failed to mention the lack [of] action and the amount of state sponsored discriminations within Europe, not just about historical religions, but specially against the new religious movements, often ostracized by the very European Commission.

A Union of Freedom and Democracy

Mr. Schinas began his address by acknowledging the importance of religious tolerance as central to what Europe stands for today. “It’s a union of freedom. It’s a union of democracy,” he declared, emphasizing the need to preserve these core values within and beyond European borders. Schinas made it clear that addressing religious intolerance in all its forms is an essential part of maintaining Europe’s identity as a beacon of democracy and freedom.

Joint Action Against Religious Intolerance

Religious intolerance remains a significant issue both within Europe and abroad. Schinas stressed the need for a united approach at the EU level, urging for collaboration among European institutions. He called for dialogue and understanding, cautioning against finger-pointing or fostering toxic divisions. “All of us work together at EU level, within the EU institutions, without pointing fingers, without cries of hatred, without toxicity, through dialogue and understanding,” he said, signaling the importance of constructive engagement in tackling this sensitive issue.

The European Commission, according to Schinas, is committed to playing a pivotal role in addressing religious intolerance by providing funding, support, and catalyzing processes that foster togetherness among Europeans.

Promoting Religious Freedom Beyond Europe’s Borders just by word

In addition to tackling issues within Europe, Schinas emphasized Europe’s moral responsibility to defend freedom of religion and belief worldwide. “We have a moral duty to stand for religious freedom,” he asserted. Europe must speak out wherever religions, including Christianity, are under threat, and where individuals are persecuted for their beliefs….

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