As we come to the end of the year, the work has continued to be busy. We have been working with the research team on the finalization and launch of the Freedom of Thought Report, engaging in strategic planning for 2026, and we have attended several high-level briefings at the UN, on issues ranging from the reform of the multilateral system to women’s rights.
We also attended a two-day meeting at the OSCE on teaching about religions or belief. Along with a selection on international human rights experts on both education and the right to freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), we contributed to a wide-ranging discussion about how to build on the Toledo Principles and how to help teachers implement them.
Meanwhile in Europe, 18 MEPs wrote to the President of the European Commission echoing our calls around the appointment of the EU Special Envoy on FoRB outside the EU. Our work on this will hopefully ensure that the appointed person will work to ensure humanists are protected around the world and that religion and the right to FoRB is not instrumentalised to undermine humanist values, like women’s rights or LGBTI+ rights.
Also in Europe, Gary, along with our board member, Monica Belitoiu, spoke at the Article 17 meeting with other non-confessional leaders and the Commissioner Magnus Brunner, raising key concerns of Humanists International. The following day, deMens.nu representative and former MEP, Sophie in ‘t Weld, nominated by Humanists International, gave remarks at the Article 17 meeting at the European Parliament. | 
