Fiji Government, Faith and Community Leaders Discuss Blessings of Freedom of Thought, Conscience and Religion

Faith, community and government leaders in Fiji met yesterday to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the publication of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Discussion focused on protecting freedom of thought, conscience, and freedom for all Fijians, and how people of different faiths and beliefs can work together to ensure that all people enjoy these God-given human rights in their lives.

Elder Taniela B. Wakolo, General Authority Seventy and a member of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said, “The Church believes that all human beings are on this earth to learn, grow, and progress, and ultimately return to the presence of God. As such, the Church recognizes the importance of human dignity and freedom of religion or belief." 

Elder Wakolo quoted Church leader, President Dallin H. Oaks, who said: “It is imperative that those of us who believe in God and in the reality of right and wrong unite more effectively to protect our religious freedom to preach and practice our faith in God.”

Solicitor General, Mr. Ropate Logavatu Green, referenced the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights document and said, “This document supports the concept, the idea, that everyone has a fundamental right to practise their religion and beliefs freely. It is everyone's collective responsibility to ensure that freedom of religion is respected and upheld at all times. It is therefore our duty to stand against all forms of discrimination and intolerance."

Elder Paul B. Whippy, Area Authority Seventy, introduced a new Religious Freedom brochure. It was given to participants at the event with copies in English, Fijian and Hindi.

The brochure was produced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is a gift to the people of Fiji, offering a summary of national laws and other facts aimed at helping individuals understand, enjoy, and safeguard religious freedom in the context of Fiji.

The brochure can be accessed online at International Center for Law and Religion Studies | Fiji Religious Freedom Brochures (iclrs.org)

Guests at the luncheon included Hon. Lyndah Tabuya, Minister for Women and Child Poverty Alleviation; Professor Shameena Shaista, Vice Chancellor, Law School, National University of Fiji; and Mr. Jalal-Ud-Dean, former Chair of Interfaith Search Fiji.