The Right to Ritual – Is “practice” protected under international law?

The Right to Ritual – Is “Practice” Protected Under International Law?

The concept of ritual and the right to practice it freely is a topic that has sparked debate and discussion in recent years. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, questions arise about what constitutes protected religious expression under international law.

According to Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), everyone has the freedom to “practice” their religion or belief without interference. But does this protection extend to ritual practices that may not be immediately considered a traditional religious activity?

• American Anthropologist, Tanya Luhrmann, highlights the importance of acknowledging the cultural significance of rituals:

“Rituals are not just about what people believe; they’re also about how they live. They shape their sense of self and community, and provide a sense of meaning and purpose.”

• International Human Rights Lawyer, David Kaye, emphasizes the need to consider the legal implications:

“When we talk about ‘practice’ in Article 18, we’re not just talking about prayer or meditation. We’re talking about all sorts of religious and spiritual activities that people engage in. It’s a broad term that encompasses a wide range of practices.”

In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases that have tested the limits of this right to practice under international law. For example, in Ghana, a Christian community was allowed to continue its traditional rituals, including the use of certain symbols and practices, despite concerns from local authorities.

While there is no explicit mention of ritual in international human rights law, there are several cases that have indirectly addressed this issue. For instance, in Romano Catholic Church v. Italy, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that the Italian government had violated its obligation to protect religious freedom by prohibiting certain ritual practices.

As global societies continue to evolve and diversify, it’s essential to recognize the importance of protecting the right to practice, including rituals, under international law. As Luhrmann notes:

“The more we can understand and respect each other’s rituals, the better we’ll be at building bridges across cultures and religious traditions.”

In conclusion, while there may not be a direct mention of ritual in international human rights law, the concept is implicitly protected under Article 18. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it’s crucial to continue exploring and understanding the legal implications of this right.

“Religious freedom means the right to practice one’s faith without interference. But that also means respecting others’ religious practices – whether we agree with them or not.”

– David Kaye