Media have a responsibility in fueling hostility, hate speech, and even hate crimes against groups they label as “cults.”
Op-eds Global
Is Pakistan Committing a Genocidal Act on Afghan Refugees?
From a safe haven, Pakistan has become a cruel persecutor for millions of Afghans overnight.
Why Pope Francis Confirmed the Ban on Catholics Becoming Freemasons – 2
It is not because Freemasonry is anti-Catholic (which, in many countries, it is not) that Catholics cannot join it, the Vatican says, but because it teaches a method where there is no place for unquestionable dogmas.
Why Pope Francis Confirmed the Ban on Catholics Becoming Freemasons – 1
Surprising some, on November 13 an old prohibition dating back to 1738 was confirmed. But while the prohibition is the same, the motivations are different.
France Plans to Make a Bad Law Worse
The anti-cult About-Picard law is ineffective against real abuses and dangerous for religious liberty. The government wants to make it even more dangerous.
Religious Liberty Situation Deteriorating in Nepal
A report documents increased violence against Christians, fueled by discriminatory laws, although a grassroots interfaith movement offers some hope.
Can Christian Pastors Call Other Religions “Satanic”—Without Going to Jail?
Contradictory Brazilian decisions against priests and ministers demonizing Afro-Brazilian movements test the grey area between freedom of expression and hate speech.
New Proposals to Criminalize Jehovah’s Witnesses’ “Shunning”: Why They Are Wrong
Two British psychologists and one criminologist venture onto a slippery road when they suggest extending provisions about domestic abuse to religion-based “ostracism.”
Kenya: Shakahola Deaths by Fasting Should Not Be Used to Crack Down on All Religions
A Senate Committee’s report creates serious risks for religious liberty after the tragedy of Good News International Church.
The Unification Church Issue in Japan: A Japanese Christian Theologian Speaks. 2. The Other Half of the Truth About the Family Federation
The request of dissolution is based on “half-truths” that are in fact “half-lies.”