Qatar's legislations guarantee the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms which are enshrined in the permanent constitution of the country which also prohibits racism or discriminatory practices, senior official has said.
Dr Ibrahim bin Saleh al-Nuaimi, chairman of the Doha International Centre for Interfaith Dialogue, said Qatar's efforts to protect religious freedoms are clear and well-known through its enactment of laws and legislation.
He was speaking at the three-day Conference on the Promotion of Religious Freedom organised by the US State Department which ended Thursday.
Al-Nuaimi said Qatar guarantees the freedom of belief and worship, and the country has not experienced any discrimination based on religion or sex.
He stressed that the freedom of belief and the right to practise religious rites are fully in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
He added the Qatari legislations reflect the fundamental truth of human rights and guarantee freedom of religion and anti-apartheid.
Al-Nuaimi said that Qatari laws prohibits insulting the Islamic Christian and Jewish religions, and the abuse of the prophets or offending the places of worship. He added there is no distinction between the Islamic religion and other heavenly religions and referred to a number of constitutional texts and legislations which promote religious freedoms in the country.
The conference focused on the importance of promoting religious freedom around the world and helping those in need to overcome the challenges they face in their countries, and identify concrete ways to combat religious persecution and discrimination and to ensure greater respect for the religious freedom of all.
Among the topics discussed were religious freedom and women's rights, combating extremism and terrorism, economic prosperity, addressing the legal challenges to religious freedom, advocating equal rights for all, preserving cultural heritage and providing support and care to victims of religious violence or persecution.
Many religious figures and individuals from different countries and religions spoke at the event. Representatives of governments, civil society organisations and institutions also expressed their support in promoting religious freedom and diversity.
The conference was attended by participants from more than 80 countries around the world, with a clear record of progress in religious freedom, committed to promoting Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, or countries recently taking meaningful steps to start doing so.
