Jan Figel, a prominent advocate for human rights and religious freedom, delivered a compelling speech at the Faith and Freedom Summit IV held in Panama City. Although unable to attend in person, Figel utilized technology to convey his message, emphasizing the critical importance of freedom of religion or belief as a cornerstone of human rights and peace.
The Faith and Freedom Summit IV, held on September 24-25 at the Latin American Parliament in Panama City, brought together a diverse coalition of voices advocating for religious freedom and peaceful coexistence. With more than 40 international speakers representing a wide array of beliefs—including Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Scientologists, Indigenous Mayans, Sikhs, Hindus, and non-believers—the summit served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration. Among the keynote speakers was Jan Figel, who stressed the fact that emphasized that “Dignity is more than a right. It is a reality from which rights are derived. Dignity is a daily learning process through which we discover what it means to be human in every situation“.
A Life Dedicated to Human Rights
Jan Figel, a Slovak politician and diplomat, has a long-standing commitment to promoting human rights and religious freedom. He served as the first-ever European Union Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU, a role that underscored his dedication to these issues on a global scale. His extensive experience in international relations and human rights advocacy has positioned him as a key figure in discussions surrounding dignity and freedom. He has participated in practically every edition of the Faith and Freedom Summit NGO Coalition (different from the American based Faith & Freedom).
The Essence of Dignity
In his speech, Figel articulated a profound connection between human dignity and freedom of religion, stating, “Peace is the fruit of justice. The core of justice is based on the respect of fundamental human rights, and the foundational principle of human rights is dignity.” He urged attendees to return to the original meanings of key documents that define human rights, highlighting how contemporary agendas have been influenced by various ideologies that often overlook the fundamental duties we owe to one another.
Figel outlined five key points that encapsulate his message, beginning with the assertion that there is a “strong and deep nexus between human dignity of all and freedom of religion or belief for all.” He referenced three pivotal documents that articulate this priority: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), the European Union Charter of Fundamental Rights (2000), and the Vatican II Council’s Declaration on Religious Freedom (1965). Each of these documents emphasizes the inherent dignity of every individual as a foundation for freedom, justice, and peace.
Bridging Divides
Figel’s second point emphasized that respect for human dignity serves as a meeting point for both religious and secular humanists. He noted that various traditions converge on the idea that every person possesses inherent worth, transcending material existence. “Each human being is a person, a unique being with intellectual, spiritual, and material dimensions,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that rights and duties are intertwined.
In his third point, Figel highlighted the importance of duties in relation to rights, advocating for a culture of human dignity that promotes awareness and respect for both. He introduced the Silver Rule and the Golden Rule as ethical principles that foster justice, compassion, and solidarity among individuals. “Freedom without responsibility cannot survive,” he cautioned, emphasizing that personal dignity calls for fulfilling one’s duties as a member of society.
Equal Dignity, Equal Citizenship
Figel’s fourth point addressed the implications of equal dignity for citizenship. He asserted that equal dignity leads to equal, fair, and inclusive citizenship, regardless of one’s background. “In dignity, we are all equal, whether we come from a royal family or from homelessness,” he remarked, framing diversity as a source of creativity rather than a challenge.
Finally, Figel concluded with a powerful message about the importance of learning to live together in a spirit of brotherhood. He distinguished between merely existing together and truly living together, advocating for collaboration among diverse beliefs and traditions. “Dignity is more than a right. It is a reality from which rights are derived,” he stated, emphasizing that understanding dignity is a continuous learning process that enriches our humanity.
A Vision for the Future
As the summit progressed, Figel’s insights resonated with participants, encouraging them to reflect on the vital role of dignity and religious freedom in fostering a more humane society. His call for a renewed commitment to these principles serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights and the need for collective action in the face of challenges.
In closing, Figel expressed his gratitude to the attendees, wishing them fruitful deliberations and a successful summit. His speech not only highlighted the importance of dignity and religious freedom but also reinforced the idea that these values are essential for achieving lasting peace and justice in our world.
The Faith and Freedom Summit IV was organised by a coalition of NGOs dedicated to the promotion of religious freedom and peaceful coexistence, and was attended by numerous personalities such as the OAS Representative in Panama H.E. Mr Rubén Farje, Reverend Giselle Lima (Co-Coordinator of the Panama Roundtable on Religious Freedom in Panama, Mr. Iván Arjona-Pelado (recently appointed Chair of the NGO Committee on FoRB for the United Nations in Geneva and who presented the web www.whatisfreedomofreligion.org from the Church of Scientology), Ms. Maureen Ferguson who is one of the USCIRF Commissioners, and it was opened and closed by the Minister In Charge of Interior and Minister In Charge of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Panama, plus ambassadors from different countries.
