Published 11 December 2024
David Smith MP is today announced as the UK’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) and will champion FoRB for all around the world.
David Smith MP has today been appointed as the new UK Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB). He will take up the appointment in the New Year.
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. This work supports the UK’s wider human rights efforts, underpinning our belief that human rights are universal.
David’s appointment underlines the UK’s ongoing commitment to freedom of religion or belief for all.
Minister for Human Rights, Lord Collins of Highbury said:
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. There is, however, still much to be done to ensure this right is upheld around the world.
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 brings a wealth of relevant experience to the role from his work in the charity sector and faith based organisations. He has spent much of his career working in the UK and overseas to promote fairness, egalitarianism, compassion and the empowerment of the vulnerable.
David Smith MP 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.
