All cases

Filtered by: Freedom of Religion

Debate over refusal of communion and religious autonomy rights

January 6, 2025, Spain

Rubén García de Andrés, mayor of Torrecaballeros, was denied communion by a local priest because of his homosexuality, which he denounced as homophobic. His political party is demanding an apology and threatening legal action. The Diocese of Segovia defended the priest, citing Canon 915, which allows for the denial of communion on moral grounds, and denied any accusations of homophobia. The case raised concerns about the involvement of secular groups in church affairs, which is seen as a potential threat to religious freedom.

Ban on funeral processions in Manduria

December 15, 2024, Italy

The mayor of Manduria, Gregorio Pecoraro, has approved an ordinance banning walking funeral processions. A local councillor is challenging the ban, saying it restricts religious freedom.

Pastor and Christian community offered protection by police

December 12, 2024, Germany

Protestant pastor Ralf Sedlak has been the target of several threats and attacks following a sermon criticising the Hamas attack on Israel in October. The police are now being called in to protect him and his family, as well as to provide security for church services as all members of the congregation face hostility.

French TV channel fined for presenting abortion as cause of death

November 13, 2024, France

On 13th November the French Communications Authority (Arcom) fined a television channel €100,000 for presenting abortion as the "first cause of death" during a Catholic programme.

New UK Buffer Zone Bill restricts silent prayer near abortion clinics

October 31, 2024, United Kingdom

On 31 October 2024, Section 9 of the Public Order Act 2023 (POA) came into force, introducing new restrictions on freedom of expression and religion within the so-called 'buffer zones' around abortion clinics in England and Wales.

BRITISH COURT CONDEMNS ARMY VETERAN FOR PRAYING IN HIS THOUGHTS

October 16, 2024, United Kingdom

Adam Smith-Connor has been found guilty of praying silently in an abortion 'buffer zone'. The controversial decision confirms serious restrictions on freedom of religion and even thought UK 'buffer zone' legislation.

Christian street preacher injured by assailant and arrested by police

October 10, 2024, United Kingdom

Christian pastor Dia Moodley was arrested and detained for 13 hours by Avon and Somerset Police after preaching about Christianity and Islam outside Bristol University during Ramadan in March.

UPDATE: Ireland's "buffer zone" law comes into force

October 10, 2024, Ireland

In October 2024, Ireland implemented a "buffer zone" law that prohibits any conduct that could "influence" abortion decisions within 100 metres of clinics. The law also restricts speech on private property near public areas, raising concerns about restrictions on religious freedom.

UPDATE: Controversial Irish Hate Speech Law Dropped

September 22, 2024, Ireland

After intense debate, the controversial 'hate speech' bill in Ireland was dropped in September 2024. The proposed legislation was seen as too vague and a serious threat to free speech.

UPDATE: Deselected Christian candidate sues LibDems for religious discrimination

September 13, 2024, United Kingdom

David Campanale, who was deselected as a candidate because of his Christian worldview, is now suing the party for discriminating against him because of his protected religious beliefs. In their defence, the LibDems have reinforced the claim that some Christian beliefs are incompatible with the party's current values.