In cooperation with the Tolerance and Diversity Institute (TDI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Tbilisi, the Oslo Coalition on Freedom of Religion or Belief, NCHR is currently implementing a blended learning course on Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) in Georgia. This course aims to educate and raise awareness among various stakeholders, including civil servants, social workers, teachers, human rights organizations, grassroots community centers, religious communities, and the media.
Watch a film about the project by TDI on Youtube
As the first certified course on this topic in Georgia, the blended learning course combines 10 hours of online learning followed by a three-day on-site workshop. It covers a wide range of topics related to the right to freedom of religion or belief for all. Participants arelearning about international standards and mechanisms for the protection and advocacy of this fundamental human right. They will also explore domestic legislation, state policies and practices related to FoRB in Georgia, and the intersection of FoRB with other human rights.
Additionally, the course covers different models for the relationship between the state and religion, as well as the history of religious tolerance in Georgia and beyond. By providing a comprehensive understanding of these issues, the course equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to address challenges and violations related to freedom of religion or belief.
Current socio-political climate in Georgia
Some participants have highlighted the importance of the course in the current socio-political climate in Georgia, with a decline in respect for democracy, the rule of law, and challenges for human rights, which has naturally affected the state of freedom of religion or belief. The situation has unfortunately worsened significantly in recent years, with more and more people's rights being violated.
The blended learning course by the TDI and NCHR is conducted in partnership with UNDP Georgia and the Norwegian Embassy in Tbilisi under the initiative "LEAD - Leadership, Equality, Advocacy, Democracy”, and with the support of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
By educating and empowering a diverse range of stakeholders, this course on freedom of religion or belief in Georgia aims to play a crucial role in promoting tolerance, understanding, and respect for this fundamental human right. As such, it is hoped to be an important step towards building a more inclusive and equitable society where individuals can freely practice their religion,belief or non-belief without fear or discrimination.