Position Statement: The Global Challenge to Liberal Democracy, Pluralism, and Universal Human Rights

The Board of Humanists International, representing a global movement of non-religious individuals and organizations united by the principles of reason, empathy, and universal human rights,

Recalling the formation of the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU) in Amsterdam in 1952, a post-war response to totalitarianism, and the affirmation that humanism is a democratic and ethical life stance, dedicated to building a more humane society;

Acknowledging the historic contributions of humanist leaders to global governance, including the roles of prominent humanists as the first Directors of UNESCO, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Health Organization (WHO), demonstrating the enduring commitment of humanism to evidence-based international cooperation;

Further Recalling the decades of advocacy at the United Nations, including the Human Rights Council and other bodies, as well as the Council of Europe, especially through the Freedom of Thought Report and the End Blasphemy Laws Campaign, in defense of the core democratic freedoms of conscience, expression, and assembly;

Noting with profound concern the recent and accelerating global trend of democratic backsliding, the rise of illiberal populism, ethno-nationalism, and religious majoritarianism that explicitly targets secular institutions, freedom of inquiry, minority rights, and the rule of law;

Recognizing that liberal democracy, characterized by secularism, pluralism, the rule of law, the separation of powers, and the guarantee of individual rights for all remains the political system most consistent with the ethical ideals of humanism;

Emphasizing that the defense of democracy is not a partisan political issue, but a fundamental moral and ethical imperative rooted in the humanist conviction that every individual has the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own life.

The Board of Humanists International hereby declares the following principles:

1. Secularism as the Democratic Foundation: That political secularism, the neutrality of the state regarding religion or belief, is indispensable for the stability of liberal democracy, as it ensures equality under the law, while respecting the individual’s right to freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression, and prevents the imposition of any single worldview upon the populace.
2. The Priority of Fact and Reason: That the integrity of the democratic process depends on an informed citizenry that respects evidence-based discourse, rejects disinformation, and actively promotes critical thinking and scientific literacy as core educational values.
3. Protection of Humanist Activists: That Humanists International will continue to prioritize the support and protection of its member organizations and activists who, often at great personal risk, work on the front lines to defend human rights, secularism, and democracy in the face of authoritarian pressure.
4. Inclusivity and Pluralism: That democracy must be genuinely pluralistic, actively opposing majoritarian attempts to disenfranchise minorities, including the non-religious, LGBTQ+ persons, women, and indigenous peoples, as true democracy requires the dignity and autonomy of all citizens.

The Board of Humanists International accordingly calls upon all its member organizations, partners, and supporters to immediately and rigorously commit themselves to the following actions:

1. To Defend Democratic Institutions: To utilize their local, national, and international platforms to speak out against all attempts to erode democratic norms, checks and balances, and the independence of the judiciary and the press.
2. To Promote Non-Discriminatory Lifestance Equality: To proactively campaign for the ending of structural religious privilege from state functions and public funding, while advocating for a fair and non-discriminatory framework that supports all legitimate philosophical and lifestance organizations, ensuring equality that underpins democratic fairness.
3. To Engage in Counter-Disinformation Advocacy: To launch or strengthen public awareness campaigns that promote rational inquiry and critical thinking as essential tools to combat the spread of demagoguery, authoritarian propaganda, and political tribalism.
4. To Foster Transnational Solidarity: To strengthen collaboration to provide mutual support, resources, and shared strategy to combat transnational threats to liberal values, particularly through cooperation between long-established organizations and those operating in developing democracies.

The Board of Humanists International affirms its unwavering resolve to be a leading voice and active force in the global effort to defend, protect, and rebuild liberal democracy for the fulfillment of the rights and dignity of every human being.

Suggested academic reference

'Position Statement: The Global Challenge to Liberal Democracy, Pluralism, and Universal Human Rights', Humanists International, Board of Directors, 2025