In search of heroic hearts

THE word "heartbeat" has been heavily used for the past 16 days in relation to the search for the leader of a religious organization on their very own property. Section 5 of Article III of the Bill of Rights of the 1987 Constitution provides, "No law shall be made respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference, shall forever be allowed. No religious test shall be required to exercise civil or political rights."

What is the right to religious beliefs? It is a fundamental aspect of human rights, enshrined in various legal frameworks and international agreements. This right encompasses both the freedom to practice one's religion and the freedom from being compelled to follow any religion. The key principles thereof are: 1) Individuals have the right to practice their religion freely without government interference, and the government cannot favor one religion over another; 2) The right to freedom of religion or belief is recognized as a universal human right. It is protected under documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. These documents affirm that everyone has the right to manifest their religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship, and observance; 3) The right to religious beliefs also includes the right not to profess any religion or belief. This aspect is crucial in ensuring that individuals are not coerced into religious practices against their will; 4) The right to religious freedom is closely linked to the principle of non-discrimination. Discrimination based on religion can lead to social division and conflict, which is why many legal systems strive to protect individuals from such discrimination and in terms of education; and 5) Students have the right to express their religious beliefs, including the right to pray individually if it does not disrupt the educational process. Schools must also respect students' rights to abstain from activities that conflict with their religious beliefs.