The UK government is set to intensify its efforts in safeguarding Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) in ten countries including Nigeria, as outlined by the Foreign Secretary’s newly appointed envoy, David Smith.
In a detailed briefing held at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on Tuesday, Smith explained that his approach would center on a five-pronged strategy aimed at tackling religious persecution globally.
He stressed that the initiative would prioritize countries where the need for intervention is most urgent, where there is potential for tangible improvements, and where the UK holds strong diplomatic relations capable of facilitating meaningful change.
The ten nations identified for these targeted efforts include Vietnam, Algeria, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, China, Syria, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Notably, with the exception of Ukraine, all these countries are highlighted on the Open Doors’ World Watch List for severe anti-Christian persecution.
Among the primary elements of the government’s strategy is the commitment to uphold international norms by engaging with global institutions such as the United Nations and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe. These partnerships will play a crucial role in ensuring that international standards on freedom of religion are respected.
A second key focus will be the development of “targeted bilateral relationships,” which will see British diplomats work directly with foreign governments, urging them to release individuals imprisoned for expressing their religious beliefs. This direct engagement is seen as an effective means to address violations and press for justice on the ground.
Smith also emphasized the importance of bolstering international coalitions to address FoRB violations. By uniting like-minded nations and groups, the UK plans to amplify its voice and influence in advocating for religious freedom on the world stage.
Furthermore, the UK government aims to incorporate the protection of FoRB into its human rights agenda byweaving religious freedom into its regular diplomatic and foreign policy work.
The final strand of the plan highlights the importance of working closely with civil society organizations. These groups play an essential role in fostering understanding and respect among different religious communities, while also gathering vital information about religious persecution and working directly to alleviate it.
Smith stressed that the collaboration with grassroots organizations would be key to the success of this initiative.
Nigeria has seen a marked increase in violence against religious minorities, especially Christians, in recent years. Extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have waged brutal attacks, and non-state actors continue to exploit religious divides.
