The Right to Freedom of Religion

The Right to Freedom of Religion, as reflected in the Charter of Palermo (2015), affirms that every person must be able to hold, practice, and express their beliefs without interference, coercion, or discrimination. Freedom of religion is understood as a fundamental component of human dignity and democratic life.

The Charter emphasizes that contemporary cities are shaped by diverse spiritual traditions and forms of belief. Thus, the ability to practice religion both individually and collectively requires both formal protections and the removal of structural barriers that limit access to spaces of worship, public expression, and community life.

The document links freedom of religion to other core rights, including protection from persecution and access to asylum, and recognizes that many people on the move are fleeing violence tied to religious identity or belief. Ensuring the full realization of this right, therefore, depends on policies that safeguard both the freedom to believe and the freedom to live without fear.

  • "The situation in Palermo regarding Islamophobia unfortunately still exists, even if often it remains hidden. There are prejudices and suspicious attitudes that affect especially those who wear visible signs of their faith. At the same time however, the city is changing: many social and cultural efforts are working to promote respect and coexistence, and this gives hope that things can truly improve."

    —Abu Taeb Minto

  • "When it comes to the recognition of Italian Islam, it doesn't exist. So on the one hand, there is the right. On the other hand, there isn't. There is the right to express yourself. Even intellectually, you can create a work, you can write a poem, you can go out and protest. You can do it very well. But we single you out. For example, if you go out and protest, you're framed differently. Especially if you're Muslim, you fall into the danger zone to some extent."

    —Ashraf