Religious Discrimination Survey

The purpose of the Religious Discrimination Survey is to provide a subjective measure of the magnitude of the problem in a given country as perceived by its inhabitants.

Question asked: How big of a problem is religious discrimination in the country where you live? Take this survey.

Problem Explanation

Religious discrimination is a significant issue that poses challenges to individuals, communities, and the broader social fabric of a country. Here are key reasons why religious discrimination in a country is considered a problem:

1. Violation of Freedom of Religion: Religious discrimination infringes upon the fundamental human right to freedom of religion, denying individuals the right to practice their faith without fear of discrimination or persecution.
2. Undermining Social Harmony: Discrimination based on religion can undermine social harmony by fostering divisions and creating tensions among different religious communities. This can lead to a breakdown in trust and cooperation.
3. Threat to Diversity: Religious discrimination threatens the cultural and religious diversity that enriches a society. Embracing this diversity promotes understanding, tolerance, and the peaceful coexistence of different religious traditions.
4. Impact on Mental Health: Individuals who experience religious discrimination may suffer from psychological consequences, including stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. This can have a detrimental impact on mental well-being.
5. Economic Disparities: Discrimination can contribute to economic disparities, limiting opportunities for individuals of certain religious backgrounds in education, employment, and economic participation.
6. Reduced Access to Opportunities: Religious discrimination denies individuals equal access to various opportunities, including education, employment, and civic participation, hindering their personal and professional development.
7. Legal and Social Injustice: Religious discrimination leads to legal and social injustice, as individuals may face unfair treatment in the legal system, law enforcement, and various institutions based on their religious affiliation.
8. Threat to Religious Freedom Worldwide: Tolerance and respect for religious diversity within a country contribute to global efforts to protect religious freedom worldwide. Religious discrimination may undermine these efforts and contribute to international tensions.
9. Violence and Conflict: Persistent religious discrimination can escalate into violence and conflict, with discriminatory practices fuelling social unrest and hostilities between different religious communities.
10. Global Reputation: Countries that tolerate or perpetuate religious discrimination may suffer damage to their global reputation, affecting diplomatic relations, international cooperation, and their standing in the global community.

Addressing religious discrimination requires fostering a culture of respect, understanding, and inclusivity, promoting legislation that protects religious freedom, and actively combating discriminatory practices in all sectors of society.