The training tailored to civil servants in Nigeria, was largely based on the findings of the research project “Legitimate Limitations on the Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB)”, published in the Religion & Human Rights Journal.
FORB as a human right and domestic application
The first day focused on the relationship between international law and its application in domestic law. The first lecture demonstrated that freedom of religion or belief is a human right present in many international treaties ratified by Nigeria, and therefore should be implemented domestically. The second lecture offered a comparative perspective on freedom of religion or belief based on the Indonesian context.
On the second day, the co-organizer from Bauchi State University, explained about the importance of freedom of religion or belief in Nigeria as well as its common limitations, and how civil servants could enforce this right in their capacity. The final session was delivered by experts from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. They introduced the Beirut Declaration on Faith for Rights and discussed a hypothetical case of limitations to freedom of religion or belief during a health crisis with the participants.
Impactfull teaching inspires action
The participants expressed that they were very motivated by the seminar, stating that they were better prepared and committed to implementing the right to freedom of religion or belief in their respective offices. The UN staff also complimented this OC initiative and welcomed the use of tools elaborated by the UN in the event. The OC will continue and expand the delivery of such trainings, combining academic excellence with impactful teaching.
The next pilot training will be held in Brazil end of October 2020.