CSW welcomes the news that David Smith, MP for North Northumberland, has been appointed the UK Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB). 

A press release from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) states that: ‘As Envoy, David will champion FoRB for all overseas, promoting tolerance and mutual respect through and alongside the UK’s global diplomatic network and engagements in multilateral fora. David will represent the UK in international discussions on FoRB, working closely with other special envoys, experts and civil society partners.’ 

Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Human Rights, said: ‘David’s appointment is a clear signal of the value placed by the UK on championing freedom of religion or belief for all around the world. No one should live in fear because of what they do, or do not, believe in.’ 

David Smith MP, who will take up the appointment in the new year, said: ‘I am delighted to be appointed as the Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief. From sub-Saharan Africa to the Middle East and Asia, I have personally worked with those of different faiths who face religious persecution, and so these are issues that I care passionately about. I look forward to taking forward the Government’s commitment to supporting freedom of religion or belief for all.’ 

CSW’s Founder President Mervyn Thomas CMG said: ‘I am delighted that David Smith MP has been appointed the UK’s Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief. Having travelled with David in the past to China and Nigeria, I am greatly encouraged by his passion to champion the cause of those who experience injustice because of their religion or belief. I have no doubt that he will build on the legacy of his predecessor Fiona Bruce and maintain the UK’s position as a world leader in FoRB advocacy, and I look forward to continuing to work with him to promote and protect the right to freedom of religion or belief for everyone everywhere.’