Humanists celebrate human rights at Humanistentag in Nuremberg
PRESS RELEASE
Nuremberg, 25 June 2018 – Humanists from all over Europe gathered this weekend in Nuremberg, at the occasion of the General Assembly of the European Humanist Federation (EHF). The General Assembly was followed by Humanisten Tag, the landmark event of EHF member organization Humanistischer Verband Deutschlands – Bayern (HVD-Bayern).
During the General Assembly, members looked back to a very successful year. Advocacy at the European Parliament, together with the High Ground Alliance for choice and dignity in Europe, led to a resolution condemning attempts to restrict abortion in Poland. Activities at the Council of Europe have resulted in increased awareness about the political and legal strategies used by conservative religious groups. The EHF’s action at UN level contributed to shaping the UN’s interpretation of the right to life and advocacy at EU level, together with the International Humanist and Ethical Union, fostered EU institutions’ recognition of the discrimination and persecution of non-believers worldwide.
This year also saw the launching of the EHF’s new visual identity, website and newsletter as well as the first steps towards establishing more efficient knowledge management within the organisation.
Drawing on these, delegates had the opportunity to discuss future activities and shape the EHF’s strategic plan to keep reinforcing the voice of humanism in an era where extremist and populist discourses are gaining ground and increasingly challenge human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
“All the forces, whether they come from member organisations, the Board or the staff, will be needed to face the upcoming political and social challenges. A particularly important one will be the European elections. At a moment when Europe stands at a turning point in its history, progressives and democrats cannot afford to lose them.”,
, said Giulio Ercolessi, President of the European Humanist Federation.
The General Assembly was followed by the second edition of Humanisten Tag, a festival organised by the EHF’s Member organisation HVD-Bayern dedicated this year to celebrating human rights and the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The opening ceremony saw a lecture by Heiner Bielefeldt, former UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of Religion or Belief, who held a lecture about the balance between freedom and security.
Over the weekend, Humanisten Tag visitors had the chance to take part in a number of presentations, panel discussions, workshops and artistic happenings revolving around key issues relevant for humanists and progressives and gathering key local, national and international civil society actors and influencers. EHF member organisations contributed to the event by sharing best practices from their own countries.
For more information on HumanistenTag, please visit the festival website: https://www.ht18.de/
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