The annual Human Rights and Democracy Review, a summary of activity in 2020 by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and its diplomatic network to defend human rights and promote democracy worldwide, has been published today.
The report includes reference to Fiona's work as the Prime Minister's Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, and highlights key developments in this area over the past year.
An extract from the report can be read below and the full report can be accessed here.
"Defending freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all, and promoting respect between different religious communities, are key priorities for Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, and for Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab.
Concerns about the denial of FoRB grew in 2020, with some religious minorities blamed for the spread of COVID-19, and being scapegoated or targeted as a result.
Work on this issue was led by the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion of Belief (FoRB), and by the Minister for Human Rights, Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon.
On 20 December, the Prime Minister appointed Fiona Bruce MP as his Special Envoy.
We will continue to stand up for the right to freedom of religion or belief and promote respect between different religious communities. Our work with the Alliance will remain a priority for 2021, as well as delivery of the Truro Review recommendations to ensure that all 22 will be delivered by the time of the independent review of the report in 2022."