United Nations too Christian, claims report

[cbayer]

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/01/united-nations-too-christian-report

Study calls for greater religious tolerance with Hinduism and Buddhism under-represented and funding a major issue

Press Association
theguardian.com, Wednesday 1 January 2014 04.29 EST


The report says while the UN represents all religions, there are 'structural and historical differences' that need addressing. Photograph: Carlo Allegri/Reuters/Corbis

Christianity dominates the United Nations and more diversity is needed to increase non-Christian representation in world peacemaking, according to a study.

Research undertaken by Prof Jeremy Carrette, with colleagues from the University of Kent's department of religious studies, has revealed that more than 70% of religious non-government organisations (NGOs) at the UN are Christian, and that there is historical privilege in allowing the Vatican a special observer status, as both a state and a religion.

The report, called Religious NGOs and the United Nations, calls for greater awareness, transparency and equality in the way religious NGOs operate within the UN, and more emphasis on religious tolerance.

The report also asks for greater understanding of how religions enhance and constrain human rights. It provides evidence that funding limits other religious traditions from establishing NGO work at the UN.

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